Understanding Sideways Bud Growth on Rose Trees

Anatomy of a Rose Standard

A Northern California gardener notices a bud growing sideways on a rose tree and asks why.

Rose Tree Structure

Rose trees (standards) are created by grafting a modern rose onto a tall Rugosa rootstock stem. The top growth forms the "head." Canes grow upward or outward naturally.

Normal Growth and Maintenance

• Spring pruning: Cut head canes back to 8 inches for balance.
• Remove Rugosa suckers: Rub off buds on main stem; yank (don't cut) basal shoots.
• Sideways buds on the head are normal—prune to shape.

Key Principle

Don't cut Rugosa growth—cutting encourages more. Remove unwanted growth by pulling to suppress regrowth.