The dog rose is a wild rose and, like other wild plants, does not require any special care. So it grows even without regular pruning. However, by cutting you can definitely promote and support the he alth and flowering of your dog rose.
How do I cut a dog rose correctly?
To properly prune a dog rose, use clean and sharp tools, remove diseased, dry and weak shoots, cut off three-year-old shoots for a rich harvest, and adjust the height for a harmonious appearance. A radical pruning is possible, but there will be no flowering in the following year.
Unfortunately, the dog rose is not well suited for the vase because the individual flowers only last a few days, even if it doesn't seem so given the abundance of flowers. However, you can cut a few branches with rose hips from September onwards. These look very pretty in an autumnal bouquet.
How do I cut my dog rose correctly?
Only use clean and sharp tools to cut your dog rose so that you do not transfer germs or bruise branches when cutting. Fungi or germs can easily penetrate crushed shoots and damage your plant.
First remove all diseased, dried out and weak shoots. Then cut off the three-year-old shoots, on which only a few flowers and rose hips form. So you can count on a rich harvest. If your dog rose is in a hedge, you may want to adjust the height to the other plants so that the hedge creates a nice overall picture.
Can I also do a radical pruning?
If you haven't trimmed your dog rose for a few years or if it has simply become too big for you, then you can definitely try a radical cut. However, you will then have to go without flowering for a summer. Because the dog rose only blooms on old wood, not on the young shoots. Therefore, you should consider whether you would rather switch to a regular cut in the future.
The most important cutting tips for the dog rose:
- always use clean and sharp tools
- if possible, do not cut off any fresh shoots
- cut off diseased and dry shoots close to the ground
- shorten three-year-old shoots as necessary
- radical pruning possible
Tip
If possible, never cut off the fresh shoots; this is where the flowers and rose hips will form next year.