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 ...
It appears that your garden is responding to all the rain. I am happy for you. We have had a decent spring too. The wind has been annoying but it has been cool and wet enough here too.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! I love the Camassia, which isn't something that will grow in my part of the country.
ReplyDeleteWe've had a cool rainy spring too, but it's too early here for annuals. But soon!
ReplyDeleteWe’ve had a cool wet spring too, but we aren’t quite ready to plant annuals. But soon!
ReplyDeleteThe chartreuse of the bleeding heart is shining in the shady garden like no other. What a sight! Brunnera 'Jack Frost' is an old favorite; I've moved volunteers into other places in the garden: I could ever tire of this plant.
ReplyDeleteWonderful news on rain for your region. Happy for you. Maybe next year for us...
ReplyDeleteThe Camassia leichtlinii is gorgeous! "moist soil" means not for "SoCal". 😒
Do you grow any Martagon Lilies?