Question
I have an old rose with a large root with to spurs and healthy shoots above each.
I do not want to lose the plant. May I divide it by cutting it in half? Do I need to
seal the cut places? State: CT

Answer
If the old rose is important to you then do not attempt to divide it when it is actively growing as it may go into stress and the cuttings die. Wait until it is dormant and has dropped off all it's leaves. This can be done early in the spring or late in the fall. Don't do it in the fall if you get a cold winter. If the winter is a warm one then you can do it in the fall. Don't use anything on the cuts as the rose will form a scab and heal itself just like trees do. Keep the soil moist around the roots when you first divide the rose and make sure it never dries out. Most roses don't survive a transplant because they are not watered long enough just in the beginning. You should be watering the rose for at least two months to make sure the new frail feeder roots never dry out.