Determine the Time to Prune

• 1). If the rose blooms on new growth, it is best to prune in the early spring while the plant is still dormant.
  
  
• 2). If the rose blooms on canes from last year, wait until after the rose has flowered to prune for shape.
  
  
• 3). Roses that bloom on old wood and new growth can be pruned before flowering to remove dead, diseased and damaged wood. After the first flowering, a harder pruning should be done and the bush can be shaped.
  
  

Dead and Diseased Branches

• 1). Cut branches that are black, dry or shriveled at a 45-degree angle, beginning at the bottom of the plant.
  
  
• 2). Cleanly cut any live branches that show damage at a 45-degree angle, 1/4 inch above a bud.
  
  
• 3). Examine the inside of the cut cane. It should be white. If not, make another clean, angled cut until the inside shows white.
  
  
• 4). Seal the cut with Elmer's glue to discourage cane borers.
  
  
• 5). Remove debris from the area.
  
  

Pruning to Shape

• 1). Starting from the bottom of the rose, remove any dead or damaged branches with a 45-degree cut.
  
  
• 2). Use clean cuts at a 45-degree angle to remove any branches that are thinner than a pencil.
  
  
• 3). Continue cutting sucker growth and weak branches to open the center of the rose bush to light and ensure proper air circulation.
  
  
• 4). Seal the new cuts with Elmer's glue.
  
  
• 5). Remove the debris.