Gardeners are being urged to prune their shrub roses now to ensure a spectacular display of blooms this summer. According to gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh, a simple pruning technique can help roses thrive, reducing the risk of common problems like mildew and black spot.
In a recent video, Titchmarsh demonstrated how to cut back overgrown rose shrubs. He advised removing both dead and old stems that are cluttered and barely producing new shoots. However, he cautioned that shrub roses require a different approach compared to bush roses: they should not be cut down to knee height but rather tipped back and thinned out to create a well-spaced framework.
“I have created a well-spaced branch framework, which allows a through flow of air. Mildew and blackspot will be less likely because of the air circulation,” Titchmarsh explained. After pruning, he recommended feeding the plant with blood, fish and bone to set it up for the summer.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) advises that shrub roses thrive in fertile soil in full sun, with enough space to achieve their full potential. Some varieties, such as Rosa rugosa and wild roses, can tolerate poorer, drier soil and partial shade.
