SHREVEPORT, La. — Local gardeners looking to extend the beauty of their rose beds into the cooler months can follow simple pruning tips from Jennifer McGimsey of Akins Nursery. She explains that late summer, even as the roses begin to look a little tired, is the perfect window to give them a trim and set the stage for fresh growth before fall.
How much to cut
McGimsey recommends removing roughly one‑third of the plant. The key is to locate an outward‑facing leaf node, preferably one bearing five leaflets, and make the cut just above that node. Cutting above an outward‑facing node directs new shoots away from the plant’s center, creating a more open, airy shape that promotes healthy development.
Remove dead or diseased canes
In addition to the one‑third reduction, gardeners should inspect each rose for any dead, damaged, or diseased canes and prune those away. This not only improves the plant’s appearance but also reduces the risk of disease spreading throughout the shrub.
Encouraging new growth
“Don’t be afraid to get out there,” McGimsey advises. “You can’t do this wrong. You’re just going to cut the plant down, and this is going to reward you with nice, fresh growth and then a nice round of new blooms.” By following these steps, rose owners can look forward to a fresh flush of blossoms that will brighten gardens well into the fall season.
Feeding after pruning
After the cuts are made, McGimsey suggests applying a slow‑release organic fertilizer—or any readily available fertilizer—to feed the newly exposed growth. Proper nutrition helps the plant allocate energy toward producing buds rather than merely repairing tissue.
What to expect
With careful pruning and adequate feeding, shrub roses, drift roses, and knockout roses can produce another round of blooms before winter sets in. The result is a garden that continues to provide color and fragrance well after the typical summer peak.
Gardeners in the Shreveport area can visit Akins Nursery for additional advice, plant selections, and the recommended fertilizers to keep their roses thriving through the season.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
