Pruning and Training Climbing Roses: A Henry Street Nursery Guide

This guide applies only to repeat-flowering climbing roses, including climbing roses, repeat-flowering rambling roses, and patio climbing roses. For single-flowering roses (true rambling roses), please refer to our separate guide.

Why Prune and Train Climbing Roses?

Proper pruning and training help climbing roses maintain their shape, produce more flowers, and stay healthy. Training involves securing canes to a support system, while pruning removes dead or weak growth and encourages new blooms. These practices help climbing roses reach their full potential.

When to Prune Climbing Roses

The best time to prune climbing roses in the UK is mid-February, when the plant is still dormant but the threat of frost has passed. This allows you to shape the plant before new growth begins.

Tools You’ll Need

• Clean, sharp pruning secateurs
• Gardening gloves for protection
• Twine or plant ties
• A sturdy support structure (trellis, fence, pergola)

How to Prune Established Climbing Roses

1. Remove Dead or Diseased Wood

Cut away any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to prevent disease spread and improve overall plant health.

2. Shape the Framework

Select 3–5 strong, healthy canes from the base to form the main structure. Train these canes upwards before allowing smaller side shoots to grow horizontally or diagonally along the support structure. Horizontal training encourages more flowers.

3. Trim Flowering Laterals

Shorten side shoots growing from the main canes to about 4–6 inches, leaving a few buds on each.

4. Clear Out Weak Growth

Remove thin, spindly stems that are unlikely to produce flowers. This directs the plant’s energy to stronger canes.

For Young Plants:

Minimal pruning is needed in the first couple of years. Remove any dead wood and, if necessary, prune back by one-third to encourage additional branching.

Training Climbing Roses

1. Secure Canes

Gently tie canes to the support structure using soft twine or plant ties. Avoid tying too tightly to prevent damage. Biodegradable ties are ideal, as they break down over time and prevent stem pinching.

2. Encourage Horizontal Growth

Train canes horizontally or in an arched shape whenever possible to stimulate more flowering along the length of the canes.

3. Regular Maintenance

Periodically check ties and adjust them to accommodate new growth. Remove any suckers growing from the rootstock.

Tips for Success

• Be Patient: Climbing roses take time to establish a strong framework, but the results are worth the wait.
• Feed and Mulch: After pruning, apply a rose-specific fertilizer and a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Inspect Regularly: Monitor for pests and diseases, treating them promptly to keep your roses healthy.

With proper pruning and training, climbing roses can transform your garden into a stunning vertical oasis. For more tips, tools, and expert advice, feel free to email us or visit Henry Street Nursery. We’re here to help you create the garden of your dreams!