While the basic guidelines outlined in the previous section may be applied to hybrid teas, and small and large shrub roses, there are specific guidelines you should follow for other varieties. The principles listed on this page regarding pruning will assure the healthy growth of your plant.

Climbing Roses
These roses usually bloom best on two-year-old wood, so prune very lightly. Remove only twiggy growth and damaged or non-productive stems. Reinvigorate growth every 2 -3 years by removing old, woody canes at their base in favor of the younger, more vigorous and flexible, green canes. These can be trained to grow on arbors, trellises, fences or pillars.

Shrub Roses
During the first two seasons, allow the plant's basic framework to develop, pruning only the small and spindly shoots. In the third season, treat as you would any hedge, shearing off the top third of the plant, leaving the rest to grow. Prune smaller shrubs back by one-half and larger shrubs by one-third.