Page 37 - Waterfall City Issue 8 August 2024

IT’S TIME FOR

PRUNING ROSES

By Eliza Malan

P runing is all about preparing for a

flourishing new season. Pruning
roses is a crucial gardening task
that promotes healthy growth,
abundant blooms and overall vigour. For
South African gardeners, the ideal time
to prune roses is from the late winter to
early spring, typically from late July to
early September. We provide a step-by-
step guide to help you prune your roses
and get them ready for the new season. or damaged wood. Make your cuts at allows the plant to direct its energy to
least an inch below the affected area, stronger canes.
Pruning is essential for several reasons: ensuring that you reach healthy wood.
• It encourages new growth 7. Clean up
Cutting back old wood stimulates the 3. Cut back old canes Gather all pruned material and dispose of
rose bush to produce new stems. Remove old, woody canes that are no it properly. This helps prevent the spread
• It shapes the plant longer producing vigorous growth. This of diseases and pests.
Pruning helps maintain a desirable shape will encourage new, productive stems.
and size, making your rose bush more Post-pruning care
attractive. 4. Shape the bush Watering: Ensure that your roses receive
• It improves air circulation Cut back remaining canes to shape the adequate water, especially if the weather
Removing excess branches improves air bush. Aim to open up the centre of the is dry.
circulation, reducing the risk of diseases. plant to improve air circulation. Make Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer
• It enhances bloom quality your cuts above outward-facing buds to to provide essential nutrients for new
By removing old and weak growth, the encourage growth away from the centre. growth.
plant can focus its energy on producing Mulching: Add a layer of mulch around
better blooms. 5. Trim to the desired height the base of the plant to retain moisture
Depending on the type of rose, trim the and suppress weeds.
Tools you will need canes to a height of about 45cm to 60cm
Sharp pruning shears: For clean cuts (18 to 24 inches). For larger varieties, you Here are some final tips to bear in mind:
that heal quickly. can leave them a bit taller. • Prune on a dry day to prevent the
Gloves: To protect your hands from spread of diseases.
thorns. 6. Remove weak growth • Always make clean, angled cuts to
Disinfectant: To clean your shears and Thin out any spindly or weak growth. This prevent water from sitting on the cuts
prevent the spread of disease. and causing rot.
• Inspect your roses regularly for signs
Steps to prune roses of pests or disease, and take action
1. Prepare your tools promptly.
Ensure that your pruning shears are
sharp and clean. Disinfect them to By following these steps, you’ll ensure
prevent disease transmission. that your roses are well-prepared for
the upcoming growing season, leading
2. Remove dead and diseased wood to a garden filled with vibrant, healthy
Start by cutting away any dead, diseased blooms. Happy gardening!

Waterfall City Issue 8 2024 35