Pruning a shrub rose

Shrub roses, modern bush roses and hybrid tea roses all follow the same principles when it comes to pruning. Species roses also follow similar pruning principles, but with a few exceptions, which we explain below.

The specifics of how you prune these roses depends largely on the shape and size you want the shrub to be. For example, roses in pots tend to be pruned to a rounder shape whereas shrubs planted against a wall tend to have more of a sloping shape that is shorter at the front and taller at the back.

Below our Rosarians explain the standard pruning rules for shrubs and other similar varieties.

When should I prune my shrub rose?

If your roses are starting to look a bit flimsy you can do a gentle chop in October/November time to stop them getting damaged by wind rock. However our Rosarian’s wouldn’t recommend doing a big chop at this time of year as you will probably still need to prune them later in the winter.

The ideal time to prune shrubs, hybrid teas, floribundas and species roses is in January and February. As long as it is during the dormant season, it doesn’t matter too much.

Standard Pruning Practice for Shrub Roses

Start by getting rid of any dead, diseased or damaged stems and then any weak or wayward stems. This way you will know what you have left to work with.

Then cut back one of the main stems of the shrub to your desired height and use this as a guide for the rest of the plant.

Traditionally rose experts have suggested that you should always make your cuts to the stems above an outward facing bud (new growth), but if you don’t do this, it won’t drastically affect the health and future growth of your rose. It just means your new growth might be facing more inwardly.

How far back should I prune my shrub?

The first year that your shrub is in the ground, you should give it a lighter trim. Our Rosarians wouldn’t recommend cutting it back by more than 1/3. Make sure you still remove any dead, damaged, diseased wood and any weak or wayward stems though.

In the years that follow, the amount you prune your shrubs back depends on how tall you want it to be and the shape you prefer. As a general rule, our Rosarians would recommend chopping it back by around 40-50% each year.

For More Specific Guidance Follow The Below Rules

If You Want It To Grow Taller Next Summer

Cut it back by about 1/3 of it's current height and width

If You Want It To Be The Same Size Next Summer

Cut it back by about 1/2 of it's current height and width

If You Want It To Be Smaller Next Summer

Cut it back by abourt 2/3 of it's current height and width

ROSARIAN TOP TIP

If your plant is surrounded by other large perennials, think carefully about the height that you chop it back to. If you cut it too short, the larger surrounding plants will smother it and it’s growth may be stunted.

NEED SOME MORE HELP CARING FOR YOUR ROSES?