The term “hedge rose” is often used for various types of wild roses, and let me tell you, these beauties are some of the toughest, most low-maintenance plants you can add to your garden. Generally speaking, you don’t really *need* to prune a wild rose, and honestly, they prefer it if you leave them alone as much as possible. However, if you do feel the need to tidy things up, here’s the lowdown on how to do it right.
Keep Pruning to a Minimum
Here’s a pro tip: wild roses don’t bloom on brand-new growth. Instead, those lovely flowers pop up on wood that is at least two years old. If you go in with heavy shears without a plan, you might accidentally cut off all the spots where the plant was planning to bloom, leaving you with a flowerless bush. To avoid that heartbreak, keep your pruning light. Usually, all a wild rose needs is a quick thinning out to remove dead or dry branches.
Here is the best way to prune your wild rose:
- Wait until late fall and grab a pair of sharp pruning shears.
- Make sure to thoroughly disinfect your blades first.
- Cut away any dead, brittle, or diseased branches entirely.
- Lightly thin out the center of the plant to improve airflow.
Giving Your Rose a “Facelift” (Rejuvenation Pruning)
Every five years or so, you might notice your wild rose getting a bit too crowded or looking a little “leggy” at the bottom. If the branches are starting to tangle and choke each other out, it’s time for a rejuvenation cut. In this case, you can remove about a quarter of the plant’s bulk. Always make your cuts at a slight angle, and pick a day that isn’t freezing cold to prevent the plant from getting “frostbite” or losing too much sap.
Just like with a light trim, make sure your tools are squeaky clean—rubbing alcohol or a quick spray of disinfectant works wonders. And please, don’t forget your gardening gloves! Wild roses are famous for their thorns, and they *will* bite. If you end up making any large cuts, it’s a good idea to seal them with a pruning sealer. This helps protect the plant from pests and diseases while it heals up.
