Rosenscheren

Rosenscheren (rose pruning shears) are hand-held pruning tools designed primarily for roses but used on many flowering shrubs. They belong to the broader category of secateurs and are designed to make clean, quick cuts that minimize tissue damage and reduce the risk of disease.

Most rosenscheren are of the bypass type, featuring two curved blades that pass each other like scissors. Anvil models have a single blade that cuts against a flat surface. Bypass pruners are favored for live wood because they tend to make cleaner cuts; anvil pruners can dull more quickly and are often used for dead wood.

Common features include a curved blade, a spring mechanism to reopen the blades, and a locking mechanism to keep the blades closed for storage. Handles are typically aluminum or steel with plastic or rubber grips for comfort. Blade materials are usually stainless steel or hardened carbon steel; some are coated to resist sap adhesion.

Using rosenscheren involves cutting at a slight angle just above a bud or node, making a clean cut with minimal tissue damage. For roses, cuts should be made on healthy wood, and dead or diseased canes should be removed. Regular deadheading of roses may also use rosenscheren to remove spent flowers.

Maintenance is simple: after use, clean sap, dry, and lightly oil the pivot; sharpen blades as needed and replace any worn springs or blades. Store with the blade closed.