How To Prune Bush Roses In Winter

Step 1: You will need

Step 2: Remove crossing branches

To encourage your roses to grow in a vase shape, remove any branches that cross over. Vase shaped bushes not only look more attractive, they help wind pass through the bush which prevents the plant catching airborne diseases. Branches that cross over may also rub and become infected. Remove these branches at the base, and any other stems that grow inwards rather than outwards. 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.

Step 3: Cut back

The rest of the stems should be cut back to within 15 centimetres of the base if you have a newly planted rose, or about 30 centimetres for older plants. Angle each cut at about 45 degrees. Cut just above outward facing buds, to encourage the plant to grow outwards rather than inwards.

Step 4: Cut out 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. You may need to saw thicker branches. You should be left with 3 or 4 healthy main stems.

Step 5: 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.

By May your roses will be flowering again.