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ANNUAL PRUNING IN MILD CLIMATES -- Prune your roses between December and February by cutting back all bush roses to about one-fourth the height they attained during the year. Most should be cut back to a height of 18-24 inches annually; lower every 3-4 years. ANNUAL PRUNING IN COLD-WINTER AREAS -- Prune in late winter or early spring after the danger of frost has past; cut back the plants to about a third of the height they attained during the previous season. SUMMER PRUNING -- In mid-summer, if the plants grow too big, it's good to cut them back a little to shape the plants and keep them in bounds for the fall flush of flowers. Just don't over-do it -- the plants still need lots of leaves to keep up their energy. WINTER PROTECTION -- Where freezing weather threatens rose plants, it is wise to cover them with a protective mulch. Oak leaves often give the best results; but where these are not readily available, other organic mulches will help a great deal. The idea is to shield the plants from wind and from alternate thawing and freezing. When you are considering what to use, remember to plan for its removal later: some materials may be difficult to remove. CUTTING FLOWERS FOR INDOORS -- Cut flowering stems either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Cut above the lowest 5-leaflet leaf (usually 3-5 inches above the base of the stem). Immerse stem in a tall container of warm water, and refrigerate at least one hour. Remove the flowers from the refrigerator and arrange them in a vase. Freshen the water every day. Jack Christensen's Practical Rose-Growing Tips
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