By Oliveoil
Lincolnshire,
United Kingdom 
I have two climbing roses on an arch which has partially collapsed in the winds. We have managed to prop the old arch up, but need to replace it with a new frame. I was wondering if it would be ok to chop down the climbers to enable us to remove the old arch and when would the best time be to do the deed. Such a shame as they are full of flowers and have very thick growth this year. Hoping we can do something later rather than sooner as they are so full of flowers. Advice please.
7 Jun, 2015
Answers
Thanks Bathgate, it has been secured - are you saying to do the chopping back in the autumn then and not the springtime?
7 Jun, 2015
I'd certainly do it the autumn before winter. This will allow you to get the stems you need tied back in ready for spring.
Years ago we ahd a similar problem and OH carefully laid as many long stems back as far as he could without them snapping off.
7 Jun, 2015
No, I was saying to enjoy the blooms for a week or so, then fix your arch. You may need to cut a few canes to get the job done, but so be it; they will grow back.
Letting the roses grow for 4 month will only make it worse. I'm thinking what would be easier for you.
7 Jun, 2015
I'd agree with SBG, Roses are only just really getting going - it would be a pity to cut them down yet if the arch can be made to last through the summer.
7 Jun, 2015
I guess a picture would be helpful and how badly the structure is compromised. It would irk me too much to have a partially collapsed structure on my property, Then again there's the Leaning Tower of Pisa,
8 Jun, 2015
That's the trouble with being a perfectionist Bathgate!
I guess it depends on whether the garden's for show or not.
8 Jun, 2015
lol only for show for me and hubby lol it is safe at the moment angle iron knocked in to support the arch and electric tie wraps to keep it in place.. Will give it a little trim, we think maybe if we wait until spring we will be able to take out the metal arch piece by piece without being too drastic with the cutting down and get a stronger structure in place around it. Just a matter of keeping fingers crossed for no more strong winds now.
Thank you everyone for your ideas and comments as always everyone so helpful on here.
8 Jun, 2015
You are welcome Oliveoil. I was only thinking safety first.
8 Jun, 2015
Good point. But it sounds as though its jury rigged enough to last a few months now.
8 Jun, 2015
LOL
8 Jun, 2015
I would secure it with a heavy duty rope as a safety precaution - so it doesn't collapse further and hurt somebody. Once the flowers fade, do the deed. Cut the canes as necessary to get the job done properly - it's a thorny business so be sure to wear thick garden gloves - leather.
After replacement, let the roses regrow or replace them.
7 Jun, 2015