How does pruning height vary between rose types?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Cutting height ranges widely among the various types of roses to correspond with individual growth habits. Hybrid teas require aggressive reduction, and shrub roses require light shaping. Correct cutting height supports energy directed to blooms, not surplus foliage. Always retain 3-6 primary canes to maintain structural integrity.
Hybrid Teas
- Height reduction: Cut to 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
- Cane selection: Keep 3-5 thickest primary canes
- Bloom focus: Encourages large exhibition flowers
Climbing Roses
- Main canes: Preserve structural framework
- Laterals: Trim to 6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
- Training: Secure canes horizontally for maximum bloom
Climbing roses require special care. Do not touch the primary structural canes. Defoliate the laterals to 3-5 buds. I put mine horizontally on the fences to get blooms throughout the wall. Do not cut the primary canes when pruning unless badly damaged. They form the basis for flowering.
Shrub roses demand little height reduction. Just remove dead wood and make light shaping cuts. Too much pruning can eliminate the natural flowing form of the shrub. I do not grow more the 25% of my height in a year. This diminishes their landscape stature and helps promote flowering.
Floribundas do well when 24-36 inches tall (60-90 cm). This height suits their cluster-flowering habit. Keep 5-7 main canes spaced. I cut a little higher than hybrid teas because they more often have bushier canes. Maintain balance so they can continue to flower all the time.
After selecting the cane, comes height adjustment. First, select overall healthy primary canes that are thicker than a pencil. Then trim those canes to the height above outward buds, specific to the variety. Always use sharp bypass pruners for clear cuts. Your accuracy and diligence will dictate next season's bloom count.
Read the full article: How to Prune Roses for Vibrant Blooms
