Pruning is best done while the plants are dormant. Young crape myrtles characteristically develop multiple stems. Any suckers or water sprouts that develop along the lower portions of the main stems or from the roots should be removed when using crape myrtles as trees. Crape myrtles used as shrubs can have their tips pruned to remove old seed clusters. Twiggy growth can be thinned out from underneath and within the canopy.
Roses require more drastic pruning .
Because of our long growing season most rose bushes become very leggy. February is a good month to prune and shape your hybrid teas and grandifloras. They can be cut back to about 18 inches leaving about four to six healthy canes. Climbing roses are generally pruned periodically throughout the year. More information about pruning roses can be obtained by contacting the Horticulture department at 582-2110.