Pruning the shrub rose Rosa 'Helen Knight'

Shrub roses are undervalued and some such as 'Helen Knight' are worthy of more recognition. What is important with shrub roses is not to prune them like hybrid teas or floribundas, they need a much lighter pruning regime. This rose flowers on older growth so an early spring pruning that is given to hybrid teas and floribundas will take off most of the flowers. 

The graceful, arching stems add to the appeal of this early flowering rose. Prune a selection of older stems out close to the base of the plant to restore the right balance of old and new wood. This operation should be carried out immediately after flowering. 

Cutting back rather than cutting out stems will destroy the arching habit. Use the loppers rather than secateurs on this plant and it will be a delight in spring. 

Rosa'Helen Knight' in full flower in spring.

A pruned plant showing the complete removal of shoots at the base after flowering to encourage strong basal growth

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