On 29/07/2013 21:15, kay wrote:
thescullster;988611 Wrote:
Hi all


The new growth is coming from the base of the plant. I think the
original plant was a cutting, so I don't think the two new stems are
suckers.



If they were suckers, they would usually be of a species which has
smaller leaflets and more pairs of leaflets than the ones in the
picture. And there is no difference between the leaflets on the
flowering stem and on the new shoots. So, you seem to be right that
they're not suckers.

You shouldn't have a problem recovering this rose - I've had them come
back from less. The thickness of the new shoot is an indication of a
reasonably healthy root system.

I would prune out the dead branch, and the few dead twiglets on the new
branches. Others will tell you whether it's possible to stimulate growth
in this case by pruning, and how to do it. Bearing in mind its
sentimental value, I'd be inclined to leave it in position to gain
growth, then take cuttings and start a new plant for the new position,
and only move or get rid of this one once you have a plant secure in the
new position.




Thanks to Spider and Kay - your comments give me encouragement to persevere.

Phil