When and how to trim roses?

Question

I need expert's advise that when would be the best time to trim roses and how to do it. I live in San Francisco. For years, I try to trim them in winter time but never be able to have it done in the right time. Also please advise what fertilize should I use for them to grow healthier. Thanks a lot.

Answer 1

You can trim roses anytime in SF. You should be "dead heading" all the time. That means when the flower is done blooming you should cut them off to make room for new blooms. This is the time of year to really trim back your roses leaving the 4-5 largest most healthy stalks about one foot tall making sure there is a bud joint left so the plant can row new shoots. New stalks are usually more prolific bloomers that older stalks. There is most likely a garden center in your area that will have rose pruning classes soon. Call an Armstrong Garden Center, they usually have classes. Google "rose pruning classes SF bay area" It returned some good local classes....some for free. Use any rose fertilizer available at your local Lowe's, HD, Wal-Mart, etc.

Answer 2

To start from the end there is a fertiliser for roses specifically which should be available at your local garden centre.
A lack of information at this point as what type of rose is being pruned? Are they hybrid teas, floribundas, standards, weeping standards, ramblers, climbers or shrub roses.
The main objects would be to keep in mind are:
1 Producing as much growth as possible on as little old wood as possible;
2 Keeping the bush healthy and vigorous, with its centre open to the sun and air;
3 Achieving a shapely, well-balanced plant.

Answer 3

trim now to four inches above root crown and cover with maltch