Question: I have several climbing roses that have grown very tall, and they are out of hand in my garden. Should they be pruned now, or must I wait until next spring? MCW., Missouri.
Answer: If you desire you may remove a few old canes, and dead and weak wood from the climbing roses this fall. However, the proper time to prune is just after the blooming season. At that time careful pruning will enhance the bloom whereas fall pruning removes many blooms.