Basic Rose Care

Pruning Bush Roses:

• When: February
• How:
  • Prune repeat-blooming roses (like hybrid teas, grandifloras, floribundas, and miniatures) by 50%.
  • These roses bloom best on new or current season's wood, so cut back about 50-60% of the plant’s height.
  • Reduce the number of canes to promote new growth.

Pruning Climbing Roses:

• When: After blooming in the Spring
• How:
  • Cut flower stems back to an outward-facing bud above a five-leaflet leaf.
  • Thin out less valuable canes, especially in the center.
  • Number of canes to leave based on age of bush:
    • 1-2 year bush: 3-5 canes
    • 3-4 year bush: 4-7 canes
    • 5+ year bush: 5-9 canes

Fertilizing:

When: Late March or when plants are fully leafed out.

What: Use a rose-specific fertilizer like Rose Tone or Rose-Glo.

Common Rose Problems:

Watch for: Powdery mildew, black spot, or rust.

Treatment: Use copper fungicide spray if you see signs of fungal problems.

Prevention: Ensure healthy conditions—plenty of water, sunlight, good airflow, and clean tools during maintenance.