Rose buds in the depths of winter

I hope these roses aren’t putting on a burst of growth before they die. I have never seen rose buds on the plants in February before. And especially not on Valentine’s Day.

I keep wanting to prune them back – and take cuttings. But each time I come out with sharp secateurs and a grim look of intent to reduce each shrub by one third…. I see buds.

Just a few; but enough to make me wonder what on earth is going on.

Next week, after London, I’m just going to have to be brutal.