Pruning Roses: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Timing:

• Mid to late winter is the ideal time for pruning roses. Choose a clear, warm day for this task

• Cold Climate Tip: If you’re in a colder climate like Christchurch, New Zealand, consider pruning after the last frost in late winter or early spring.

2. Tools and Techniques:

•  Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts.

•  Make all cuts on a 45º angle, just above an outward-facing bud.

•  Remove all dead and diseased stems during pruning.
   

3. Main Pruning Steps:

• Cut Back Main Branches: Aim to cut the main branches back by half. This encourages new growth and improves air circulation.

• Open Vase Shape: Clear the centre of the plant to allow good air movement. Leave at least three to four main canes in an open vase shape.

• Collect Diseased Leaves: Gather any diseased leaves that fall off your rose to prevent the spread of disease.
   

4. Standard Roses: For standard roses, leave each branch about 15-20 cm long and encourage outward-facing buds

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5. Specific Situations:

• Climbing Roses: Remove any spindly, weak, or dead wood. Encourage main shoots to grow horizontally for better flowering.

• Remove any side shoots that have flowered to about 3-4 main buds (or one-third). Prune older branches down to the base to encourage new growth