How to prune roses so they soon ‘burst into life’ (Image: Getty)
With March here, the first growth of spring is set to breathe new life into . Before the new growing season begins in earnest, it’s crucial to complete some key gardening jobs.
It’s no surprise that ensures plants are in their best shape possible, but getting the technique down perfectly is a challenge. Helping out new and seasoned gardeners is the award-winning gardener and Jane Moore. The pro has shared the 3Ds of pruning that in fact apply to all plants that need a good trim.
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The 3Ds of pruning explained
In a video dedicated to March gardening jobs, Jane delved into the so-called 3Ds of pruning. She began: “Now pruning roses is a bit more tricky but follow a few simple rules and you won’t go wrong.”
The gardener squatted beside a rose bush she had already pruned, and encouraged gardeners to look at their plant closely.
“Are there any dead, diseased or damaged stems? We gardeners call them the 3Ds. These 3D rules apply to any pruning, whether it’s fruit bushes, climbers or shrubs like a or even this rose.”
“Look out for brown dead stems or ones with wounds on them, spots and signs of disease and dieback too. Any that are corssing over each other and rubbing, if there are any, then cut them back down to healthy growth.”
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Cut back stems that are dead, diseased or damaged (Image: Getty)
With a pair of secateurs in hand, Jane pointed out a branch with a woody stem: “This one is dying back here, can you see? I’ll cut it back a bit later.”
Next, consider the overall shape of the plant. She further advised: “If it’s a shrub like this one then you’re aiming for a goblet shape. Look for dormant buds – they are really hard to spot but they are there. Cut just up above the bud and it will soon burst into life.”
Pruning opens up plants to the air and sun that will revitalise them – ensuring they’re “happy and healthy” all through summer.
“So I’ve cut most of these main stems down by half and got rid of all the sprigs and twigs completely and I’ve taken out some of the stems that are growing up into the middle of the plant to open it up so the air and sunlight can get into it. That will keep it happy and healthy for the whole summer.