Pruning Roses

[thediynovice]

Hi

We have a number of roses in our garden (labels state they are patio roses and climbing patio roses).

The climbing one has got really tall , and has begun to bend over - possibly on the verge on snapping. Can I prune it whilst it's flowering? It's covered in flowers at the moment, but I'm afraid if I leave it, it's going to snap and damage the rest of the plant.

Also, the patio roses are doing very well, but when is the best time to prune these? There are quite a few stems with no flowers on at all, why is this?

We have just moved into this house, so don't know the history of these plants.

Thanks

 

[sandwell]

I prune mine in March.

Can you tie the climbing rose to something? I do not think it would do lasting damage by pruning now, but you would of course lose some flowers.