Tip: For neat, efficient hedge trimming, use the Stihl HSE42
Electronic Hedge Trimmer. This lightweight, electric trimmer is quiet, smooth, and powerful, with a 450 mm blade and ergonomic handle for easy switching between vertical and horizontal cuts. Available at your nearest Agrimark.
GARDEN
Then get rid of all the dead, diseased and damaged stems by cutting them away at their lowest or base point. Also remove any spindly growth that doesn’ t seem likely to support a cluster of blooms.
With all bush and shrub roses, cut away any stems that cross the centre of the plant. You are aiming for a vase-shaped bush with four or five strong stems around an open centre. This makes for a sturdy plant that allows light and air to circulate.
Decide which four or five stems you want to keep and
cut these back to a healthy, outward-facing bud, about 35-50cm from the ground.
When making a pruning cut, make sure it is a clean cut, at a slant of about 30 degrees away from the bud to allow water to drain away from the bud. Cut as close to the bud as possible without damaging it. Leaving too much material above the bud can lead to pests and other infestations when that section starts to die away. You should also spray your roses with lime sulphate as soon as possible after you have pruned. If you
Tip: For neat, efficient hedge trimming, use the Stihl HSE42
Electronic Hedge Trimmer. This lightweight, electric trimmer is quiet, smooth, and powerful, with a 450 mm blade and ergonomic handle for easy switching between vertical and horizontal cuts. Available at your nearest Agrimark.