How to prune the dark lady rose

Late winter (February–March) before new growth begins; deadhead after each flush. Remove dead, weak, or crossing stems. Reduce remaining canes by one-third for a larger, more open shrub or by half for a more compact plant. Because The Dark Lady has a somewhat lax habit, prioritise outward-facing buds to build a well-supported, wide framework.

Annually (late-winter main prune); deadhead throughout the season. The Dark Lady is a medium-sized repeat-flowering English shrub rose, growing slightly wider than tall at around 120 cm high and up to 150 cm across. Annual late-winter pruning is needed to channel energy into the large, peony-like crimson blooms. Reduce stems by one-third to one-half, keeping the centre open to improve air circulation around the lax, bushy growth.

Remove dead, weak, or crossing stems. Reduce remaining canes by one-third for a larger, more open shrub or by half for a more compact plant. Because The Dark Lady has a somewhat lax habit, prioritise outward-facing buds to build a well-supported, wide framework.