Don't trim it at all. You will put it in enough shock just by moving it. Rather try to dig far enough around the bush so that you can pull it out of the ground with much of the soil still intact. May be difficult, but atleast you won't damage any of the roots. Good luck!

I think anonymous is right -- we always trim our roses back in the spring. (Of course, the weather is a wee bit different here, but the book we have about roses doesn't differentiate between the different climate zones for this).

I'm by no means an expert on the subject, but one thing I *know* is important with summer transplants is watering. When you get the rose in its new position, build up a little ring of soil (a berm, to be technical) around the plant. The berm should be about as wide as the hole you dig, which ought to be generous in width (to soften up the soil for the roots to spread), but no deeper than necessary-- just deep enough to put the soil level (in respect to the "stem") where it was in the plant's old home.

Every time you water it (at least every day for the first week or so), at the end of a good soaking, fill up the berm. Mulch (wood chips, pine straw, etc.) will help hold in moisture, too, but "They" suggest that you not put it within a couple of inches of the plant, to prevent mildew, rot, etc.

I agree with the suggestion that you take the whole rootball, if possible. Put it in a pot or wrap the rootball in a tarp (or plastic bags) for transport. And it might be a bit messy, but it's probably a good idea to give it some water as soon as you dig it up, too, especially if it's going to be a little while before you can get it back in the ground.

Good luck! :o)

I think anonymous is right. I have read and seen that done before. Let me know how it goes. I'll be praying.

How did it go?