Winterizing Roses

Winterizing roses is extremely important. The last thing you want to do is work all spring and summer on your beautiful garden only to have the cold destroy your work. Read on for tips on winterization.

if you live in a cold climate, the best thing you can do is to choose breeds that are hardy. Explorer roses are bred in Canada and are rated to subzero temperatures. Getting a breed that works for your zone is a big part of getting them to survive the winter.

Be sure that your plants are healthy and well watered as you get into the autumn season. Plants in shock will be less likely to survive their dormant state.

Bush and Shrubs

The key here is to make sure that the base and and start of the stems are well-insulated. You should do this after the first frost. Trim off the dead and long stems back to no more than about three feet high. Tie them together for stability in the harsh winds. You'll want to pack soil about 12 inches up the stems. Put mulch, leaves, and other cover on the soil mound to keep it in place.

Climbing Roses

Ideally, these should be taken down and covered with 3-4 inches of soil. If you can't easy loosen them, then be sure to cover the base as with a shrub. Wrap the loose stems and canes with some sort of insulating material, such as straw or burlap.

Rose Cones

These can be an easy way to add another layer of protection to your prized bushes. They are specifically designed to protect the top and sides of your shrubs.