I would just cut it back in early spring and see what happens. Mulch,
fertilizer etc. If it doesn't recover consider getting a good antique rose,
one grown on it's own root stock rather than one of the hybrids. I have a
Belinda's Dream which is a good, long blooming, pink rose but there are a
lot of good ones. The antique rose emporium in Brenam,
http://www.antiqueroseemporium.com/, has a lot and if you go over that way
you can also visit the Blue Bell Ice Cream factory. They also have a place
here in San Antonio.

Good luck


"jojo" wrote in message
m...
I think a "standard Rose"
Thick long stalks, to long thin spindly stalks. (I can snap a picture if
it
will help)
It gets full sun from 10 on. It's on the west side of the house, which
means
it gets full summer heat too.

Thanks,
jojo



"Red" wrote in message
m...
It would be helpful to know whether it is a "standard rose" or a climber,
and if it is in full sun. Sounds like a climber, if it is then the
normal
advice is to cut it back after it blooms in the spring as that will
usually
be the only time it blooms. Given the fact that it is not very
attractive
and you probably aren't concerned with the bloom, I would recommend
cutting
it back severely, 12-18 inches,in the spring, in San Antonio we say
Valentines day. If it is a standard rose it should come back with
several
new shoots. If it isn't in the sun it probably won't ever look very
good.
Use any good organic fertilizer, and a layer of good compost with mulch
on
top. Hasta Grow every couple of weeks will give you good results.

"jojo" wrote in message
m...
Hi,

Bought this house in July and the rose bush just looked horrible.
The roses all looked sick at best.

It is about 4'-6" tall and only has 2 - 3 main stalks.
Now, it still has quite a few leaves, but is not very attractive.

What do I need to do to get a pleasant looking rose bush this spring.
Can I prune it...how far down.
should I treat it?
give it bone meal?

Thanks,
jojo