How to Prune Miniature Roses

Miniature roses are pruned much the same way as large rose bushes. The size of the miniature rose bush makes it the easiest of all roses to prune. With a miniature rose you basically want to prune it to shape, leaving the center of the plant slightly taller than the outer branches.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Pick five to eight of the healthiest looking canes on your miniature rose bush in late Winter or early Spring, and carefully cut the rest of the canes off of the bush. This allows the bush to focus it's energy on feeding the healthiest canes to prepare them for growth and flowering.

2. Carefully cut off fading flowers after the first bloom. Pruning cuts should be made approximately 1/2 inch above an outward facing bud. This ensures that the new growth grows outward from the bush instead of growing towards the center.

3. Make your pruning cuts at a 45 degree angle. A 45-degree angle prevents excess moisture from collecting on the cut area, which could lead to rot or disease.

4. Cut off dead wood or branches that grow out from the bush at an awkward angle throughout the growing season to help your miniature rose keep it's shape.

5. Prune your miniature rose again in the fall. Cut the bush down to 5 to 8 inches tall with five to eight canes.

Tips & Warnings

• Canes that come from below the ground, also known as sucker growth, are not a problem with miniature roses, like they are with most other roses. On miniature roses, these canes are not grafted, and they flower just like the other canes do. You can cut them off or leave them on, depending on if they are one of the five to eight healthiest canes that you choose to leave on the plant.
• Use a sharp, clean pair of scissor type hand pruners when pruning miniature roses.