Pruning Roses?

[DC Sunshine]

We're finally in the last month of winter here, and the rose bushes are looking rather sad and begging to be pruned. The weather is still cold and wet but the worst of the frosts are over. (All over, touch wood).

Is this the time to prune them back? I missed doing it last year so they're rather congested and scraggly. And how hard can they be pruned back? I've done some to a height of about 3 feet and made a basic vase shape, was pretty brutal with them They're just the average bush kind, got one climber. That one collapsed off its frame in a storm so its had a really hard chop!

What would be the best fertiliser - blood & bone? And best time to apply it -now or wait till they come into leaf?

Would appreciate any input - love a garden full of roses over summer

Cheers,
DC

[shel]

I'll dig out my garden book and see what I can come up with. I used to have a nice rose garden, but that was nay years ago, and I wouldn't want to give youbad information. Give me a day or so, and if you don't hear from me please remind me.

Shel

[DC Sunshine]

K thanks Shel

[john_torras]

thanks Shel!

[Jenyfari]

It depends what part of Australia you are in as when is the best time to prune roses.

In warmer areas prune in July.
For cooler climates wait unit August.