Delay close or low pruning at least until two weeks before the last killing spring frost. For healthy growth, cut the canes back to live wood. A live cane has a white center and green inner bark. Prune to produce an open center and to shape the plant. After a severe winter, only a few inches of healthy cane may be left on hybrid teas and grandifloras.
Live wood has a white center and green inner bark.
Miniatures are very hardy. Pruning usually consists of removing dead and damaged wood and thinning and shaping the plant. Pruning floribundas and polyanthas is similar to miniatures, but there usually is more dead wood to remove. Prune climbers to remove dead wood and old, unproductive canes. Prune shrub roses to remove dead wood, damaged canes and weak, twiggy growth.