Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches first
Cut out crossing, rubbing, or inward-growing stems
Thin crowded growth to improve air circulation
Remove suckers from the base
Cut back old stems to encourage new growth
Reduce height by cutting selected stems to a lateral branch or bud
Shape lightly to maintain the desired form
Use clean, sharp pruning shears or loppers
Make cuts just above a bud or branch junction
Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once
Remove spent flowers during the growing season if desired
Disinfect tools between cuts if disease is present