This weekend would be a great time to go out and prune your dormant roses. Pruning is essential to the health of the bush and climbing roses. During this time of year you can remove deadwood, reshape and balance the plant which will prepare it for the spring flush of new growth.

There are some illustrations below that you can reference to help guide you through the pruning process. I highly recommend a good pair of gloves along with some sharp hand pruners and loppers. Sharp pruners are essential to leave a good cut on the plant where he can heal up. If you crush the stem with a dull pruner it will only cause further damage to the plant.

I would hold off on the fertilizer until late February or early March as the soil temperatures are low and there is not a lot of root activity.