Pruning Knockout Roses

!±8± Pruning Knockout Roses

In order to make the best decision when pruning Knockout roses several factors need to be considered. This variety is a brand new hybrid that requires less care than most of the other types. However some trimming and pruning is required even for these low maintenance varieties.

Here are some tips to help you.

Do not prune too often: Knockout roses do not require pruning more than every three years. Of course if you want to do a little trimming to keep the bush or shrub in a certain shape then this can be done anytime.

When to prune? Early spring when growth is just starting is the best time to do this. You will stimulate growth by removing old, dead wood from the center of the plant. This will also allow more air to circulate and prevent disease from attacking the plant. However you can prune in summer if you wish to retain the shape of your bush or shrub.

Keep your pruning tools clean: It is wise to use pruning shears for these types of plants. You should always sterilize them before you start work and in between plants. You can use rubbing alcohol for this. When you do this it will cut down the risk of disease to your plants.

How tall? Decide how tall you want your bushes or shrubs. Always trim them two feet under the required height you want. For example if you want the bush to be five foot you should trim it to three foot. It will grow up to the five foot mark during the growing season.

Position and angle: You should try to cut the branch at a forty five degree angle. This will reduce old stumps and stimulate new growth. You should make your cut a quarter of an inch above an outward facing bud. This will enable the bush or shrub to grow upwards and outwards.

Cutting canes: New canes are meant to produce new blooms, but they do not always do so. Therefore it is better to cut these out at their base. They are usually weaker branches that shoot up from the base of the plant. This will keep the bush stronger and flowering better.

These points will help you when pruning Knockout roses and will keep them looking good for a long time. They really do not need much maintenance to make a beautiful addition to your garden. All you need to do is to know how to plant, water and prune your plants and you will be able to enjoy them with minimum effort.