20 year old rose bushes, how can I help rejuvenate the rose bush?

Question

Long stem thornless red rose, the knarled base stems are approx 4in. in dia. with a group of four entwined. How can I separate and replant or start new bushes . I don't want to loose the beauties to old age! My local is O.C. North, CAL.

Answer 1

I have a bottle of stuff called Rooting Hormone made by Green Light.  I haven't used it yet but a friend of mine has taken cutting of Wax Myrtles and grape vines and used it and he has had good luck.  He otherwise does not have a green thumb.

I would take some cutting and use the rooting hormone.  I think it would harm the bush to try and separate the base.  I would use the plant to start numerous new ones and try and keep the pruning going on the old one to make it look as nice as possible.