In Pinellas County, roses should receive their major pruning for the year during the first part of February. Dead wood should be removed, as well as any stems smaller in diameter than a pencil. Remove about one-third to one-half of the remaining growth and spray the plant with copper fungicide to discourage dieback. This major annual pruning is necessary to stimulate the new growth that produces the flowers. During the remainder of the growing season, prune back shoots which become overly long or leggy.

Additional Resource

http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/hot_topics/lawn_and_garden/pruning_roses.html