How To Prune Bush Roses In Autumn

Step 1: You will need

Step 2: Cut back

All stems should be cut to about half their height. Each cut should be made at about a 45 degree angle, so that rain can drain off the stem rather than sitting on top and rotting the plant. The cut should be parallel to the angle the shoot comes out of the ground. Use the whole of the blade to get a clean cut. To stop the bare stem from dying, cut the stem a few millimetres above a side shoot.

Step 3: Prune back diseased wood

Look out for any dry, brown stems which don't have any green shoots as these will be diseased or dead. These should be cut at the base of the stem to prevent the spread of disease. Angle the cut so that rain can drain away more easily. You may need to saw thicker branches.

Step 4: Clean the tools

After pruning diseased wood it is important to clean the tools to stop the spread of diseases. Wipe the blades of the secateurs and saw with disinfectant.

This process will help your roses stay strong and healthy until the winter pruning in February.