Pruning Roses: Rose Trees
How to Prune Rose Trees (Standard Roses)
(USDA Hardiness Zone 6: average winter lows about –10°F / –23°C)
Pruning a rose tree (standard rose) is similar to pruning a bush rose, but the goal is to keep a balanced round crown on top of the trunk.
(USDA Hardiness Zone 6: average winter lows about –10°F / –23°C)
Pruning a rose tree (standard rose) is similar to pruning a bush rose, but the goal is to keep a balanced round crown on top of the trunk.
- 1. Remove Dead or Damaged Wood
- - Cut out dead, blackened, or diseased branches completely.
- - Remove weak, thin, or rubbing stems.
- - Make cuts down to healthy green wood.
- 2. Remove Crossing and Inward-Growing Branches
This improves air circulation and light penetration.
- - Eliminate branches that grow toward the center of the crown.
- - Remove stems that cross or rub each other.
- 3. Select the Strong Framework
- - Keep 4–6 strong, well-spaced canes forming the structure of the crown.
- - These should grow outward in different directions to create a round shape.
- 4. Shorten Remaining Canes
- - Cut the remaining branches back to 6–10 inches (15–25 cm).
- - Make each cut ¼ inch above an outward-facing bud.
- - Cut at a 45° angle so water runs off.
- 5. Shape the Crown
- - Aim for a symmetrical, open vase or round umbrella shape.
- - All main branches should be about the same height.
- 6. Remove Suckers from the Trunk
- - Check the trunk and base of the plant.
- - Remove any shoots growing below the graft or from the roots.
Rose Care