Pruning cuts away dead stalks and stimulates the plant to produce new rose buds; and it is the secret to producing beautifully full and healthy blossoms. 

The skill is one that can be easily mastered once there is a basic understanding of the structure of a rose bush and the artistry of where to cut. 

‘Most home growers have never had practical guidance in how to prune in order to have the desired effect when regrowth takes place. Although it is unlikely that rose bushes will die from poor pruning techniques, left unattended, a rose bush may produce smaller flowers with weak canes. The department will give ardent home growers the opportunity to learn this skill,’ said the Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

When in full bloom, the exquisite display of multi-coloured roses in the Durbanville Rose Garden, is frequently the venue of choice for newlyweds to capture photographs on their wedding day.

Any ardent gardeners wanting to learn more about rose care and pruning are welcome to attend the event at 10:00 on Saturday, 16 July. The event is free of charge. 

Three of the facilities day workers who have accumulated years of experience, will be working overtime on the weekend to train and assist visitors to improve their skills. 

Local nurseries have also been invited to give demonstrations and provide educational information on the best products for maintaining roses.

Pruning at Durbanville Rose Garden is scheduled to be completed by the end of July.