Question
Hello, here it is spring already and I'm fretting again about our pink iceberg rose tree which has spent winter in the garage.  Lots of green leaves are sprouting and I'm afraid if we leave it alone it will be top heavy when the roses come in. We are wondering, since spring is pruning time, just how much should we cut the new growth back? It doesn't seem right to cut it all off, but I know it should be done so the tree doesn't topple over. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Sally-

It would be worse if you didn't prune it - pruning is necessary to maintain the health and compactness of the rose.  Prune it to the desired shape (kind of a ball on a stick) - at least 12 inches from the center (or larger if you prefer).  Prune out the dead canes, and any spindly growth. It won't hurt it in the least if you cut off a few inches of the cane and with it a few green leaves.  The leaves will grow back.  

Good luck-