How do I prune my rose bush?

When you start seeing leaves and the forecast looks like spring has really arrived in your area, it’s time to prune. First, prune out any dead branches by cutting them back to the base. The tops of the remaining branches can be trimmed back a bit. If a rose bush got too large last year and you want to cut it way back, do it. This is the best time of year for a hard pruning. Again, start by trimming out any dead branches. Then, cut back about 1/3 of the top or more.

Try cutting branches at a 45-degree angle, just above a bud that is facing out. Luckily, a healthy flowering shrub is pretty forgiving about a pruning error or two. The most important rule when pruning is to be careful and prune the plant, not yourself!