A rose bush that is not pruned will still continue to grow and bloom but its growth will not be as vigorous, stems will be shorter, and flowers smaller. The Arizona Rose Society recommends pruning back rose bushes by one third in September and by half in January. January pruning forces the rose bush into a short period of dormancy. This short period of dormancy stimulates new growth in spring and more flowers in summer.
Rose bushes pruned in January will have improved plant vigor, growth of new canes and higher quality, larger blooms. Pruning also helps to maintain the plant within the allocated space with enough space between bushes.
The most desirable bush form is a V or U with canes growing from the bud union or ground, upward and outward with a slightly open center. Proper pruning includes removing all foliage on each bush, cutting out all spindly or crossing branches, and removal of dead wood to open the center of the bush so the sun reaches bud onions
January is a good time to plant new rose bushes. Roses should also be fertilized this month. Give Goodman’s Landscape Maintenance a call at (602) 861-1144 and we can help with pruning and new rose bush installation.
Don’t worry! Pruning in January will result in roses blooming at the end of March into April and May. The roses will come back lush and more beautiful than ever!