Roses are one of the most popular flowers among gardeners, and it's important to know how to care for the plants year-round in order to maximize bloom during the growing season. John Cretti, host of
The Winter Gardener, offers these tips on how to care for your roses during the winter.
Mulch for Winter Protection
One way to ensure a rose's health is to protect the graft union, the small bulge at the base of the plant. Here's what to do:
- Cut linoleum, cardboard or bubble wrap into a strip that is 9 to 10 inches wide and 3-1/2 feet long.
- Place the strip around the base of the rosebush, forming a collar.
- Close the collar with large paper clips at the top and bottom of the seal.
- Pack the inside of the collar with cedar mulch to insulate the rosebush.
To protect multiple rosebushes, mound a generous amount of compost or topsoil around the base of the bushes.
Watering
When temperatures are above freezing, use a watering can or hose to saturate the bushes deeply and water roots well. Repeat every four to five weeks.
Pruning
Prune branches as needed, paying particular attention to long stems that can whip around in the wind, loosening the crown of the plant.
Treating for Pests
Put a drop or two of regular school glue or wood glue on the pruned end of branches. The glue will seal the pruning area, which keeps moisture in and prevents rose cane borers from invading the plant there.
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