It's rose pruning time - at least for those in the warmer parts of the country (if you live in a cold area leave it until next month). If you're scared of pruning your roses because you think you might stuff it up, don't worry! It's really easy.

ROSE PRUNING FOR DUMMIES

Even if you took to your roses with hedge clippers or an electric hedge trimmer they'd still flower for you. In fact  with some roses, like the 'Flower Carpet' series, that's all you need to do.

• You prune roses to keep them to the size you want, keep them healthy and to encourage new growth so you get more flowers. That's it. No magic to it.
• A bit of care when pruning, using secateurs and clean cuts, means less die back and more flowers.

HOW TO PRUNE - BUSH ROSE

• Prune on a clear, dry day. Aim to cut the main branches/canes back by a third, or half if you're feeling confident. Use sharp clean secateurs.
• Cut just above an outward facing bud, on a 45' angle away from the bud.
• Remove any little twiggy growth, stems that are rubbing, damaged and dead canes. You're aiming for a vase shape, encouraging growth away from the centre to allow good air circulation, with at least 3-4 good healthy canes. That's it!

CLIMBERS

• Cut out the dead canes, and any old, unproductive ones.  Prune back long whippy growth, crossing branches, damaged canes and twiggy bits.
• Create a framework of canes by bending them down as near to horizontal as you can, then tie them to the fence or trellis.  Space them about elbow to hand. The flatter the canes, the more flowers you'll get along the length. Done!

If you want to, spray with a mix of copper and spraying oil after pruning, and again in August. It helps keep your roses healthy and disease free.