How Do You Prepare Roses For Winter?
In all but the warmest climates, roses need to have a little protection to get them through the winter. How much protection, however, varies with your climate and with the type of roses. Rugosa roses, for example, are one of the toughest and can get through nearly any winter without protection. Identify the type of roses you have, if possible. Hybrid tea roses need somewhat different treatment than do rugosas or climbers. If in doubt, go for maximum protection just to be sure. Figure out your USDA Zone and/or your region’s lowest temperatures. How much protection you need depends on how cold your winters get. Don’t worry about additional winter protection if you live in regions where temperatures don’t fall below 20 degrees (Zone 9 and warmer). All you’ll want to do to prepare your roses for winter is cut back damaged or cold-blackened portions of the plant. Mound 4-5 inches of soil over the base of the rose if you live in cooler regions where temperatures don’t fall below 10 degrees b
