While I haven't reached this spot yet Gerry, I would think Basal growth is a good good thing and would be so excited to see it. I think I would let the plant do whatever it wants to do and not trim it back.... but that's just me, far from an expert. If you are getting basals though in my book you have a healthy vigorous plant which is great. The more laterals it makes the more places for blooms later (even if it is next year).

Marleah

i'm in the same position you are..and after much pondering..i went and looked at the own root roses that i had bought last year from a reputable company, and it seems like they cut the main shoot, and allowed the others to grow..( i think that's to keep the center open??)...so when mine got to the point where i was confident that the outer shoots were strong, i cut the center shoot, now i'm trying to re-root that!! ( i can't stand to waste a good cutting!! anyway..it didn't even bother mine, and i do think that keeping the center open will be good for them. donna

I just left mine go for now, but I guess there is no right or wrong on this. I am just hoping to get more blooms this year so I can see what they look like outside instead of indoors under lights.

Gerry