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Winter Rose Care & Pruning

Although major rose pruning is not done until late February into early March, there are a few things I do to get roses settled in for the winter. First, I wait until the first frost has occurred before I do anything. That happened on December 1 this year, a little later than normal. If you do any pruning prior to that, new growth will be encouraged, and it will just be nipped later. I will then do minimal pruning, about 1/3 of the plant or to about waist-high. It does not matter how you make the cuts. More precise pruning will be done in late winter. Giving roses a slight pruning at this time will decrease the damage from strong winter winds. Roses are not deeply rooted, and any long canes can spell trouble. Pick off any remaining leaves, if possible. I know that can be a big job if there are still many leaves left on the plant but you don't want leaves, especially diseased leaves, left to fall and harbor spores for next season. Clean the area around the base of the rose. Rake out ...
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Signs of Life


The garden seems to be coming alive again after a cold winter. The daffodils have been spectacular and the hellebores are looking great as well. I began growing hellebores a few years ago - very late in the game. I think the expense of them was probably what kept me from buying them in the past. They are really wonderful plants and so welcome this time of year. There is a good article in the latest Alabama Gardener by Troy Marden, who gardens in Tennessee, on varieties that do well for him. I have made a note of those!


Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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  1. LesMarch 13, 2014 at 4:20 PM

    My hellebores are late this year, but just this week they decided that it was time to finally show their faces.

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  2. Lisa at GreenbowMarch 13, 2014 at 4:55 PM

    Your garden is so far ahead of here this year. I have my first crocus up today. It looks stunted. I am thrilled to see it anyway. My hellebores might bloom in the next couple of days if it stays warm. I am hopeful.

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  3. Lisa at GreenbowMarch 13, 2014 at 4:57 PM

    P.S. Take some of those nodding heads indoors and float them in a bowl of water. A nice way to enjoy the blooms up close and personal. :)

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  4. _emily_roseMarch 14, 2014 at 5:36 AM

    My mom started growing hellebores about 20 years ago, and they have been divided and shared with so many people. Mine are descendents of hers. This is the first winter I ever remember trimming back last years growth, and they are blooming their little hearts out right now!

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  5. Edith KentMarch 14, 2014 at 8:44 AM

    Beautiful photos. I have solid white and the pink like yours. Guess they have cross pollinated. ..This year I have a variegated one. So easy to grow and make tons of seedlings. Mine are a month later blooming too.

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  6. EveMarch 15, 2014 at 4:36 AM

    Ah! Love these! Let's hope when spring comes it is long lived and perfect in every way!

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  7. debsgardenMarch 15, 2014 at 8:19 PM

    I love hellebores! Mine have cross-pollinated to produce an amazing variety. I love to examine individual blooms. They each have their own characteristics.

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  8. SwimrayMarch 21, 2014 at 5:23 PM

    I am not a big fan of hellebores, but at this time of year, (and with the help of your photos) that may be changing in the future.
    Ray

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