BellaOnline Forums Home and Garden Roses Can my roses be saved?

I just moved into a new house. There are two small rose bushes in the front yard, and have been quite neglected. I am new to gardening, so I don't really know what to do. The ends of the branches were fried, so I pruned them back to where I thought the "old wood" ended. There is now a bit of green in the branches, although most of it looks dead still. I am afraid if I prune back any more, there will be nothing. What should I do to give them the best chances of coming back? How long will it take to know if they are truly a lost cause? I would really appreciate any advice. Thanks! Kim

Hi Km,
As long as some of the canes are still green they have a chance. I'm not sure where you live, but if you're way up north the plants may still be dormant. Here in NYC my roses are just starting to come out of dormancy and are showing new growth. I would suggest making sure the soil the plants are in is well draining, and perhaps add some fresh topsoil. Then just be patient. If they don't show signs of new growth by the end of May they may be too far gone. But don't despair, you can replace them with new ones inexpensively and easily. Good luck and keep us posted!

Cut your losses and dig them up. Order your roses from David Austin Roses
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In a situation like this it couldn't hurt to give the roses another month.

I realize it's been a bit since this original post, but it's always a good idea if you're interested in roses to visit a local nursery that has knowledgeable and helpful staff. They can help you select a new rose that has been known to perform well in your geographic location.

As a gardening newbie, it's much easier to simply start with the right plant. A disease resistant variety can make all the difference.

Some areas of the country are starting to get the occasional warm weekend. If any has any spring rose gardening questions feel free to post them on the Roses forum!