When to Cut Back an Old Time Repeat Bloom Rose

Question

I have a rose in my yard which I think is a repeat bloomer. It was here when I moved in. I would like to cut it back about a third because it has gotten out of hand where it is. I don’t think it has been pruned for years. I live in zone 6. When is the best time to cut it back?

Also if I can’t cut it back now then could I at least prune it little?

Answer 1

The winter time is coming so it is very important that you do not cut it back to stimulate more growth!! You want the rose to get ready to go dormant for the winter, pruing it back now is just not a good thing to do despite the previous comment. Wait until enough cold temps and frosts have hit the bush to send it towards dormancy. The foliage will be brown or turning brown. You can then prune the bush back to about half its current height as that will help it not have alot of cane breakage due to winter winds or heavy snows. Here is a link to an article I wrote for you on this subject, perhaps two if I can find the links to both: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/roses/pruning-roses.htm

and

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/roses/roses-winter-care.htm

Stan The Roseman
Consulting Rosarian

Answer 2

I suggest heavy pruning be done when you observe full buds barely opening usually mid-Marcy to early April. You can safely cut dead parts and leave healthy stems to grow. Selective pruning can be done at any time.