Oregon State University Extension Service


When should I prune my roses?

I live in the Willamette Valley near Salem. Old timers say Presidents Day is the time to prune roses. True?

In Western Oregon/Willamette Valley the best time to prune is mid-February to early March. Pruning mid-month or later is recommended. This timing is suggested because generally, we will have weather that encourages the plant to start growing.

Pruning earlier (before the last frost or forecast bad weather) will cause the rose grower problems. If you prune early, you may experience dieback and have to re-prune again after better weather arrives.

In the higher elevations of Eastern and Central Oregon, it is better to wait until April, until after any possible heavy, severe freezes but while plants are still dormant.


Source URL: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/ask-extension/featured/when-should-i-prune-my-roses