Winterizing Hybrid Roses
Winterizing Hybrid Roses
Hybrid roses are marginally hardy in East-Idaho and for that reason our hybrid tea, floribunda, and grandiflora roses are not guaranteed over winter. We term them “Garden Adventure Plants”. But everyone loves an adventure, right?
Winterizing hybrid roses in cold climates is crucial to protect them from freezing temperatures, frost damage, and drying winds. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help your roses survive the winter and thrive next season:
Stop Fertilizing and Pruning Early: Cease fertilizing by late July to encourage the rose to slow its growth and prepare for dormancy. Avoid pruning after early fall, as this can stimulate new growth that is vulnerable to frost.
Clean Up the Area: Remove any fallen leaves or debris around the base of the roses to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in the soil.
Mound Soil or Mulch Around the Base: When the ground begins to freeze, mound soil, compost, or mulch about 8-12 inches high around the base of each plant. This insulates the roots and lower stems, helping protect the plant’s graft union and preventing freezing.
Add Extra Mulch or Straw: For additional insulation, add a thick layer of straw, evergreen boughs, or leaf mulch on top of the soil mound. This helps regulate soil temperatures and reduces exposure to extreme cold. This is made easy by using a “Rose Collar” to keep the mulch in place.
Wrap with Burlap or Rose Cones: For added protection from wind, wrap the entire rose bush loosely in burlap. You can also use breathable rose cones, but ensure they have ventilation holes to prevent moisture buildup. Secure the wrap to prevent it from blowing away.
Water Before the Ground Freezes: Give the roses a deep watering in late fall. This helps to hydrate them and prevents dehydration from cold, dry winter air.
By following these steps, you can help hybrid roses survive harsh winters and return healthy and vibrant in spring!