Lady Banks Rose Has Only Long Runners

Q: I have a young Lady Banks rose. It has multiple long runners but not a single bloom. What could be wrong, and should I prune the long runners? 

A: Depending on its age, the rose may simply be getting its root system established in your planting spot. In any case, don’t prune ‘Lady Banks’ rose now. All of the flower buds for next spring have been formed and you don’t want to remove them. If it is young, prune lightly after blooming next year. Remove damaged limbs but not much else. In the future, when it is growing vigorously, you can prune more heavily to keep it in bounds.