I just cut off the dead bloom. Then yearly cut the whole bush back so the canes are about 12-18" long. Here in AZ, we do this in January, but where you are the timing would be different. I always cut the stem at an angle, and if it's more than about 1/4" in diameter, I put wood glue on the stem to prevent cane borers. If what you are doing works, then keep doing it.
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