Winter Climate Pruning

Pruning in a Winter Climate

In colder climates, most of this pruning advice still applies. Northerners just don't have as many height decisions to make. Where winter snow and freezing temperatures are commonplace, precise pruning for each variety is not necessary because -- in spite of the winter protection measures we have taken -- canes will die in the cold and must be cut back severely.

1. Remove all diseased and dead, blackened canes and then prune a little more off each remaining cane until you see center pith that is creamy-white, not brownish.

2. Remove any weak, twiggy growth and canes that cross each other and rub in the wind. Then stand back and admire what you have left and be glad your severe winter also killed most insects and fungal diseases.

3. Never prune in the fall, as it encourages new growth and even more winter kill.

4. In spring, wait until all danger of severe weather is past before uncovering and pruning your roses. As the old saying goes, when the forsythia blooms, it is time to prune.