There is still time to prune roses before they break dormancy. Late winter is the best time to do so. Do not prune once the new growth is 2 – 3 inches long. fall pruning is necessary only when plants are extremely tall to prevent wind damage during winter.
Prune our diseased or winter-damaged wood looking black or brown and dry on the outside. remove any branches crossing another. Leave healthiest canes.
For tree roses, prune back by about half the height. this will begin new growth and give the tree rose a tighter habit ass it grows.
Climbers should be pruned lightly, remove twig growth, and damaged stems every 2 – 3 years. Remove old wood, and woody canes to establish more flexible green canes.
As for shrub roses, prune small shoots the first few years. Then begin trimming in general, like other shrubs, 1/3 to 1/2 size on smaller roses.
