Why Pruning Seven Sisters Rose Stopped Blooming: It Flowers on Last Year's Wood

A 20-year-old Seven Sisters rose bloomed less in 2007, was cut back, and hasn't bloomed since. Canes are brown, not black.

Bloom on Old Wood

Seven Sisters sets flower buds the previous season. Pruning in 2007 removed the wood that would have borne 2008's flowers. The rose is hardy and long-lived; it's not dead.

Recovery

No further pruning needed. It will bloom next spring on the growth made this year. Fertilize and water to encourage strong canes for next year's display.