When Mr. Lincoln Rose Reverts to Rootstock

Two-Year-Old Mr. Lincoln Gone Wild

After aggressive pruning last year, a Mr. Lincoln rose now shows only wild sucker growth from the base. Main stalk appears dead. Georgia summer heat (90s°F)—afraid to prune suckers.

Diagnosis: Rootstock Takeover

The hybrid tea died (likely from over-pruning + winter), and the Dr. Huey rootstock—a wild red climber—has taken over completely. The original Mr. Lincoln cannot be saved.

Replacement Guidance

• Buy a new Mr. Lincoln
• Prune no lower than 20 inches
• Expect 6 ft height in warm climates, 3 ft in cold
• Mr. Lincoln is naturally tall—plan accordingly