To cut or to treat or to leave alone and see what happens?

Some clown has trodden on my Generous Gardener Rose and damaged one of the main stems.


I am actually fuming but I need to be practical so I need advice on this because I don't want to have to cut the stem but of course absolutely will if I have to.

My instincts tell me to cut below the damage-but my wishful thinking is saying it's on the inside of the stem so shouldn't affect the formation or growth of any outward facing buds-and to be honest it doesn't seem to have slowed down the new buds further up the stem. It may well heal itself, it's a very good quality and healthy plant in itself.


It's a bit wobbly if I try to wiggle it, but it isn't flopping over or weak by it's own accord. I do have 6 other thick stems, so should I just cut it and be done with it?

I have ( I hope successfully) embedded the pics ( first timer so we'll see).


The blue is the Bordeaux Mix.

Just had a thought-is something munching on it do you think-everyone in the house knows to stay away from the roses.

 

Okay, then electrical tape it is, it's in good heart, the rose itself is a good strong plant.

I'll tape it and watch the particular stem over the next couple of weeks, thanks Woo.