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Rose pruning #890030

Asked November 19, 2024, 11:40 AM EST

My floribundas and climbing roses haven’t been pruned at all since summer. Is it wise to chop back long stems now with proper pruning in mid-February to March?

Marion County Oregon

Expert Response

It's great that you're considering pruning your roses! With floribunda roses, a heavy annual pruning is typically recommended in the spring, just as the buds begin to swell, which for your region would be around mid-February to early March. If you haven't pruned your roses since summer, you can go ahead and remove any long stems now to help maintain their shape and reduce the risk of wind damage, but be cautious with how much you prune.

Cutting back too much at this time might remove potential flower buds, which could impact your blooms for the season. It's best to focus on removing dead, diseased, or damaged canes, as well as any growth that interferes with the plant's shape and air circulation. When you do prune, aim for cuts about a quarter inch above an outward-facing bud at a 45-degree angle to promote healthy growth and minimize disease issues.

For climbing roses, avoid heavy pruning until after they bloom, as they typically flower on last year's wood. Thus, it's best to wait for their blooms to finish before doing any significant pruning .

So, in summary, it is wise to remove some long stems now, but keep it minimal and save the major shaping and pruning for mid-February to March.

Here's a link to an OSU extension publication you may find useful.
Oregon  State Extension: Pruning Roses:  https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/flowers-shrubs-trees/pruning-roses
Happy Gardening!
Deb K Replied November 19, 2024, 6:09 PM EST
Thank you! That’s very helpful. 
Joanne

On Tue, Nov 19, 2024 at 3:09 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied November 19, 2024, 6:43 PM EST
Your welcome!
Deb K Replied November 20, 2024, 10:44 AM EST

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