Heavy Pruning of Climbing Roses for Arbor Repair

When an arbor collapses and climbers must be cut back severely, survival depends on winter severity and rose type. In cold climates, avoid fall pruning—wait until spring. If immediate removal is necessary:

• Preserve young green canes (this year's growth); remove old gray canes at the base.
• If three or more strong green canes arise from the base, cut old wood to the ground and trim green canes to 6 feet.
• If fewer green canes exist, don't cut below 5 feet to avoid forcing a sport back to bush habit.

Wrap and tie remaining canes to protect from wind rock. Pruning now in a cold-winter area risks winterkill; delay if possible.