Pruning — the only mystery left

For bush and patio roses: in late winter, cut all stems back by about half, removing any spindly or crossing stems entirely. Cut just above an outward-facing bud at a slight angle.

For climbers: train main stems horizontally on wires (this triggers flowering shoots all along their length). Each winter, prune side shoots back to 3–4 buds; tie in new long shoots to replace any aged stems.

For ramblers: prune AFTER flowering (mid-summer). Remove one or two of the oldest stems at the base and tie in new growth.