Prune in late winter or early spring, when buds begin to swell
Use clean, sharp pruning shears
Remove dead, damaged, or diseased canes
Cut out weak, thin, or crossing stems
Remove any growth from below the graft union
Make cuts at a 45-degree angle, about 1/4 inch above an outward-facing bud
Cut back to healthy, green wood
Open the center of the plant for airflow
Remove spent flowers during the growing season
Thin overcrowded canes to improve shape and vigor
Reduce height by about one-third to one-half, depending on rose type
Disinfect tools between plants if disease is present
Wear gloves to protect your hands
Clean up and discard all pruned material
Follow the pruning needs of the specific rose variety