How to Prepare Rosebushes for Winter

Overview

Despite their delicate blossoms, roses are hardy plants that can stand up to much severe weather. However, roses are susceptible to freezing and in areas of the country where temperatures regularly dip below 20 degrees Fahrenheit in winter, roses need extra care to survive. Hybrid and tea roses are especially susceptible to cold and will benefit from winter protection. Be sure to remove all protective coverings in the spring once temperatures climb above freezing.

Step 1

Prune any dead, broken or diseased canes from your rosebush.

Step 2

Gather all canes and tie in a bunch with string. Don't tie the bunch too tightly, but make them as compact as possible without putting strain on any of the canes.

Step 3

Mound mulch around the base of the plant, about one-third of the way up the plant.

Step 4

Cover the entire plant with burlap. Tie the burlap snugly around the bottom of the rosebush to keep it from blowing off.

Step 5

If you live where winters are particularly severe, stuff the burlap with straw or leaves before you cover the rosebush, for an extra layer of insulation.