Question
I live south of Boston and planted some David Austin roses at the beginning of the spring (3-4 months ago).  One of the roses has a single shoot that is doing all of the growing.  It is now 2 to 3 feet higher than the rest of the plant.  Is that a problem?  Or should I let the plant continue to grow as normal.  The shoot does have 3 buds on it.  Thank You!!

Answer
Most rose classes, such as hybrid teas and floribundas,  have a set way of growing. Hybrid teas usually grow vigorous and upright while floribundas are not as vigorous growers and tend to spread out. David Austin roses are crossed with hybrid teas and the old roses which have all sorts of different growth patterns. You never know what an Austin is going to do. His roses depend on where they are grown and under what conditions. What you have is normal but next spring if there is another tall cane, I would cut back ( even out to the base)any of the older thin canes so all the energy goes into the more vigorous canes. That way you will get a more even type of bush. In warmer climates gardeners have a terrible time with the Austin throwing up canes in all directions. Hope this helps. Lynnette