Pruning shrubs in Cedar rapids IA

Question

Can I print my knockout roses and barberry bushes now?

Answer 1

A rule of thumb is to prune roses when forsythia starts to bloom. Usually this coincides with rose leaf buds swelling and starting to open. Cut back to an outward facing bud. Cut back until you reach live wood: look for a rim of bright green just under the bark. Healthy canes are solid green. Barberry can be pruned late fall through early spring. If the shrub is getting crowded, cut a few of the largest stems to the ground and prune out very thin stems.