Get ready for stunning blooms: The ‘most important Job’ for your roses this season

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Roses known for their beautiful blooms in pastel colors and deep reds are often associated with romance and can add a magical touch to any garden. Hoever growing roses requires significant preparation especially in the cooler months before they start flowering. To ensure healthy blooms next season gardeners need to begin preparing their roses now. According to Liam Beddall senior rose consultant at David Austin Roses pruning is one of the most important tasks for rose care and should be done in February or early March. He explained that pruning not only helps give roses shape and structure but also improves airflow and sunlight exposure encouraging new blooms for the season ahead.

While pruning may seem daunting, it can be a relaxing activity that allows gardeners to enjoy some fresh air. The ideal time for pruning is during the rose’s dormant phase in January or February. However Beddall reassures gardeners that pruning in March is still beneficial although it may cause the plants to flower slightly later.

Beddall outlined three key points for pruning roses:

1. Don’t worry about cutting them perfectly: Even beginners don't need to worry about making perfect cuts. Simply cut back half the length of the stem with sharp, clean secateurs starting with a strong central stem. There is no need to make slanted cuts or avoid snipping off buds.

2. Don’t overthink it: Roses are resilient plants and will recover producing new growth in spring, even if the pruning is a little too harsh. The extent of pruning will depend on the type of rose and how well-established it is.

3. Dispose of foliage carefully: After pruning, it’s crucial to remove any fallen leaves and debris from the ground. Avoid composting cuttings to prevent the spread of spores that could trigger disease.

Bare root roses do not require pruning upon receipt, while younger plants that have flowered for one or two seasons only need light pruning. Established plants that have bloomed for more than two or three years can be reduced in size by half. By following these steps, gardeners can ensure that their roses remain healthy and vibrant for the upcoming season.