Why a Purple Floribunda Turned Red & Pruning Guidelines for New Hampshire

The floribunda's color shift from purple → fuchsia → red indicates an unstable pigment—purple is notoriously difficult to fix genetically. Weather, soil pH, and fertilizer also influence shade. Reliable purple varieties include 'Big Purple' and 'Rhapsody in Blue'.

Pruning Advice (Zone 5 NH)

• Bush roses: Cut back to 18 inches in spring—harder pruning weakens the plant.
• Climbers: Tie canes to prevent wind rock; trim only overextended shoots.
• Transplanting: Move dormant plants in late fall or early spring.
• Fertilizing: Stop by mid-August (end of July safer) to allow cane hardening.
• Winter protection: Mound 8 inches of garden soil around base; anchor leaves if used.

Mail-order roses often lag behind nursery-bought ones—extra water and light feeding help them catch up.