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 ...
Beautiful! It's about time! So ready for warm weather!!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely beautiful. Happy spring.
ReplyDeleteI've noticed quite a lot of movement in the bushes round here - bees and other pollinators too.
ReplyDeleteLovely!
ReplyDeleteJust beautiful! Would like for Limestone Master Gardeners to visit your garden again this year ...When roses/hydrangea are blooming. Can we schedule that with you. Is first to middle of May good time?
ReplyDeleteEdith, the middle of May should be perfect.
ReplyDelete