Pruning Rambling roses is best to be carried out in summer after the flush of flowers. Prune all side shoots back to about three buds from the main stem. Also completely remove some of the older shoots by cutting out at or near ground level. This will encourage new growth from the base which in turn will provide the flowering growths for subsequent years. Tie in all the new growth once they are at a manageable size. Rambling roses are best for growing upwards- over arches, up through trees. Climbers are best suited to horizontal training.