When To Prune Hydrangea And Roses With Old Growth That Is Not Sprouting

Question From: E. Bertman - West Bloomfield Township, Michigan, United States
Q: Dear Nancy, Our hydrangia and rose bushes survived the Michigan winter -- partially. Both have hearty leaves growing at the very bottom, but so far (end of May) it looks like most of the old branches won't be sprouting. When should I prune the hydrangia and rose bushes, and how far?

A: Cut them back now. Cut the Hydrangeas back to the ground and the roses to just above the live growth. If possible cut each rose cane about 1/4 inch above an outside node. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy