In general, you will be pruning just before the plant breaks dormancy after spring's final frost. This will be early in the year in warm climates, and anytime between January and April in cold climates. If it's old roses you are tending, prune them after blooming.They bear flowers on last year's wood.Cut away the dead wood first -- it will help you see the shape of the plant without distraction. It's a good idea to visit a public rose garden and find specimens of roses you are growing.his will be early in the year in warm climates, and anytime between January and April in cold climates. If it's old roses you are tending, prune them after blooming. They bear flowers on last year's wood. Cut away the dead wood first -- it will help you see the shape of the plant without distraction.