Plant Doctor Archive

Bush rose ‘Graham Thomas’

Question HELP! I have the bush rose ‘Graham Thomas’. It is such a vigorous grower that at the moment it has put out these great long branches that reach the eaves of my house and way out on to the lawn. Should it be doing this? Do I leave them or cut them off — some have buds on the ends. The bush is about three years old. A friend is having the same problem with ‘Graham Thomas’.

Answer  ‘GRAHAM THOMAS’ is one of the most beautiful golden-yellow roses, but yes, it can also be given to excess! It will, however, respond well to cutting. Keep control by pruning it back to a manageable height — it will regrow quickly and flower. Another option is to espalier the long canes. Train them horizontally or on wires attached on a 45° angle across your house wall. As well as looking attractive, espaliered roses also send up buds all along the canes, rather than just on the tips.

Weekend Gardener, Issue 95, 2002, Page 22