When we prune roses
We would usually prune modern shrub roses in early spring, just as the risk of frost is reducing and buds are starting to swell. In Devon this is often between late February and March. For rambling roses that flower once in summer, we prune straight after they finish flowering, so you don’t lose the next year’s display. Climbing roses are best lightly trimmed after flowering and then more thoroughly in late winter if needed. I always avoid heavy pruning in the depths of winter when plants are fully dormant and when a sudden cold snap might damage fresh cuts.
Tools we use
Good, clean tools make pruning quicker and kinder to the plant. We use sharp secateurs for small stems, loppers for thicker canes and a pruning saw for very old or woody growth. Wear sturdy gloves to protect against thorns and long sleeves if the variety is particularly spiky. Always keep your tools clean and dry. A quick wipe after use helps prevent the spread of disease. If you spot diseased wood, remove it cleanly and clear it from the area rather than leaving it on the soil.
How we trim different roses
For modern shrub roses: remove dead, damaged or crossing stems first. Cut back to an outward-facing bud to encourage open growth and good air circulation. Aim to create a goblet shape with a clear centre so light and air can penetrate.
For hybrid teas and floribundas: we usually cut back more severely to 3–5 strong canes, each with several healthy buds. Make clean sloping cuts about 5–10mm above a bud, angling the cut away from the bud so water runs off.
For climbing and rambling roses: tie in new growth horizontally to encourage flowering stems. Remove a few old, unproductive canes each year to make space for new shoots. For ramblers that bloom once, prune immediately after flowering to preserve next year’s wood.
Aftercare and tips we trust
After pruning, mulch around the base with well-rotted organic material to conserve moisture and feed the roots through spring. Check plants regularly for pests; hand-pick slugs or consider pet friendly, biological control where needed. Keep an eye on watering during dry spells. If you prefer,
we offer seasonal maintenance to keep roses in good shape and flowering well.
Common mistakes to avoid
Never shear roses like a hedge — that removes flower-producing wood and weakens the plant. I also avoid leaving too many thin, twiggy stems; they use energy but rarely flower well. Lastly, don’t delay removing clearly dead wood, as it can harbour pests and disease. You can always
contact our friendly team for advice.
