PlantPalWhere to cut when shortening a rose stem
Identify the rose type before shaping. If a stem needs shortening, leave a healthy bud below the cut.
Before you start
Check whether the rose is a bush or a climber and whether it flowers once or repeats. Many modern bush roses are pruned as growth resumes in late winter or early spring; many once-flowering ramblers are pruned after flowering.
How to do it
Wear gloves and use clean, sharp shears. To shorten a stem that suits this treatment, choose a healthy outward-facing bud. Cut about 5 mm (¼ in) above it, with the cut sloping away from the bud.
When to stop and recheck
If you do not know the type or cannot see a healthy bud, postpone major shaping. Keep healthy long canes until you know whether they carry the next flowers.