Pruning Principles

• Roses are trimmed back to promote new growth and to allow maximum air circulation and sunlight to reach the center of the bush. Remove any dead or diseased branches, cutting at least 1 inch below damaged areas. If roses are not cut back annually, canes become tangled and plants are more susceptible to disease and pest problems. Blooms also are smaller.
  
  

Mark Your Calendar

• Rose growers in Phoenix should prune roses in January, according to the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. Beginning rose gardeners can benefit from attending pruning demonstrations provided by local rose societies and garden clubs or by consulting with experts at nearby public rose gardens.
  
  

Hint

• Watch for when the forsythia blooms -- this is a traditional sign that it's time to prune roses.