How to Prune Knockout Roses

Overview

Knockout roses are a rose-lover's dream and require little maintenance. Knockout roses grow rapidly. They are a welcome addition to any garden and add visual beauty. Learn how to properly prune your knockout roses for best results.

Step 1

Allow your knockout roses to grow the first year without pruning. This will give your shrub time to take on a shape.

Step 2

Prune after the first year at the end of winter while the plant lies dormant.

Step 3

Remove the dead wood with garden snips. Remove excess canes from the bottom of the shrub.

Step 4

Trim the knockout rose to one-third of it's size with garden snips. Cut the limbs just above an outward-facing bud sloping toward the shrub at a 45-degree angle.

Step 5

Deadheading isn't needed to encourage new blooms. but it does help to make your plant more attractive between flowerings.