Rose pruning is typically done in the spring before the rose bushes bloom. You’ll want to watch for the leaf buds to swell on your rose plants. This means that when the bumps on the canes get larger and reddish in color, it’s time to prune your roses!

How to Prune Rose Bushes

1. Use clean, sharp tools.
2. Look at the overall plant, but begin pruning from the base of the plant.
3. Prune to open the center of the plant to add light and air circulation
4. Make your cuts at a 45-degree angle, about 1/4 inch above a bud that is facing toward the outside of the plant.
5. Make sure it is a clean cut (not ragged).
6. Remove all broken, dead, dying or diseased wood (any branches that look dry, shriveled or black). Cut until the inside of the cane is white.
7. Remove any weak or twiggy branches thinner than a pencil.
8. If cane borers are a problem in your area, seal the cut with a white glue (such as Elmer’s).
9. Remove sucker growth below the graft.
10. Remove any remaining foliage.