There is a lanky rosebush in my backyard that is only producing 3 or 4 flowers. It is mostly stem and about 6 feet tall and has not been pruned or cared for in any way for at least the last few years. I have pruned it a bit, but what is the best way to get it back to being a lush rosebush with lots of foliage and blooms?
http://katejardiniere.blogspot.com/2011/05/roses-ornamental-garden.html
With a little work there is still hope for that rose.
First I'd clear away all of the dead leaves from around the base. Now that the danger of freezing has passed, that crown will want to breathe.
Next, cut out all the dead canes (stems) anything that is gray or black needs to go. The questionable stems that are greenish can stay for now.
The next step is going to sound harsh but that tall cane should be cut back to at least the height of the fence. If there are any flower buds up there you can wait for them to bloom first. Ideally, you will prune the whole plant back (to under three feet) early next spring. Although this seems severe it will help promote the new stems to come out much thicker and stronger. In theory you should make your cuts just above an outward facing bud but for now we'll start with baby steps.
There are some signs of black spot (a fungus) on the upper leaves so it would be a good idea to spray it with a multipurpose fungicide like Daconil or Fungonil.
Lastly, you can feed it with a good rose food like RoseTone or similar (and no, Miracle-Gro doesn't count).
Good luck! :)
Thanks for your advice, that is very helpful. I have already cut the tallest stem back to just below the height of the fence and I'll make sure to do some more pruning next spring.
