Rose shoots are pruned back after removing the pile. The right time to do this is when the forsythia are in bloom, as this is an indication that heavy frosts are no longer expected. For established plantings, prune to varying degrees depending on the rose group (as listed below) and remove any dead wood.
Now is also the right time to fertilize. Roses are "heavy feeders," so they need nutrients annually to develop healthy foliage and bloom profusely. If you have been piling with compost, spread the fertilizer now while piling and work it in superficially. You can also do the same with organic fertilizers such as horn shavings, Oscorna® Rose Fertilizer or dried cattle dung. When using our Rosen Tantau long-term fertilizer refer to the instructions for use on the package for the quantity dosage. When using other long-term fertilizers with 3 - 4 months effect, fertilize again after the main bloom at the end of June/beginning of July to support the next bloom.
Prune the plant back to about 10 - 15 cm (3-4 buds).
Remove dead shoots and weak, immature shoots.
Floribunda and Hybrid tea roses:
Prune strong shoots to about 15 - 25 cm (4 - 6 buds).
Prune weak shoots to about 10 - 15 cm (3 - 4 buds).
Remove dead shoots and weak, immature shoots.
Small shrub and ground cover roses:
Thin out and rejuvenate approximately every 2 - 3 years or annually to about 15 cm.
Remove dead shoots and weak, immature shoots.
Shrub roses:
Prune strong main shoots to about 2/3 of their length.
Prune weak shoots to about 1/3 of their length.
For rejuvenation, shorten one of the shoots to about 15 cm every 3 years.
Remove dead and weak, immature shoots.
More frequent flowering climbing roses:
Prune side shoots back to about 5 buds starting in the second year of standing.
For rejuvenation, radically cut back one of the main shoots to about 15 cm about every 3 years.
Remove dead and weak, immature shoots.
One time blooming climbing roses (most rambler):
One time a year blooming rambler roses require only minor pruning.
Cut back dead or interfering shoots in spring.
Prune young shoots to 10- 15 cm (3 - 4 buds).
Remove dead shoots and weak, immature shoots.
