Question
QUESTION: we got a rose bush when my mother in law died in April.  We
didn't get it planted outside and it is still inside in the
original container.  How do I trim it back?? it has droopy
sparse leaves and often times the leaves look like they
have dust on them?  we live in Springfield, Missouri -
central time zone, southwest area of the state

ANSWER: Roses really hate to be inside as they are hardy and don't mind the cold. Actually they like the cold because it allows them to have a rest and go into dormancy. This sleep makes them a stronger bush when they wake up in the spring. In your area you could put the rose outside anytime. Just place it near the house out of any winter winds. If you could plant it in the garden, that would be the best solution. The dust on the leaves is called mold and it will distort the rose leaves if allowed to get worse. If you are going to plant it then cut the whole bush right back to 8 inches. If you are just going to place it outside then mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 quart of water and keep spraying until the grey looking powder is all gone. Cutting it back won't help the rose if you have to keep it inside. I'm afraid that when a rose bush is kept in the house it slowly dies.

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QUESTION: when I plant it outside and cut it back, do I need to do anything else???  Cover it, water it a certain amount etc.  Thanks again

Answer
Your winter weather should keep the soil nice and moist around the rose. damp. When the weather warms up next spring, give your rose some nutrients.  Any kind of rose fertilizer will do. Then let the rose grow for a couple of years to make a nice bush and then cut it back by a third. And then every spring just prune it back by a third.