How to Care for Your Roses in Winter: A Complete Guide 🌹❄️

Will roses die in winter? How can you ensure your roses thrive during the cold months? Today, I’ll share five key tips for winter rose care to help your plants stay strong and healthy, even in the chilliest weather! 💪

1. Understanding Cold Hardiness 🌡️

Most types of roses have strong cold resistance and can survive temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F). Unless you live in extremely cold areas like the northeastern regions, roses can overwinter outdoors without much trouble. Avoid moving them indoors unnecessarily, as it may disrupt their natural growth rhythm.

2. Fertilization Strategy 🌱

From November to January (except for warmer regions like South China), roses enter dormancy. During this time, reduce the frequency of fertilization. I recommend applying a handful of compound fertilizer in early November or December to provide essential nutrients. After that, you can skip fertilizing for about a month.

3. Watering Management 💦

In winter, roses require much less water due to lower temperatures and natural rainfall. Follow the principle of “better dry than wet.” Water only when the soil is about 70-80% dry. Always water during sunny midday or afternoon to prevent roots from freezing. Keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid overwatering.

4. Winter Pruning and Cleaning 🌿

Winter pruning is crucial for rose care. Conduct pruning around mid-January when the plants are fully dormant, and the weather is stable. Limit watering a week before pruning and choose sunny days to minimize sap loss.

For effective garden cleaning, spray lime sulfur solution to eliminate pests and diseases. Apply the solution three times (once before and after pruning, with 10 days between each application). Use a ratio of 1:70 to 1:100 for thorough coverage on the plant, soil, and surrounding areas.

5. Repotting and Winter Fertilizing 🌱

If your roses have outgrown their pots, perform repotting or root trimming about a week after winter pruning. Be gentle with the roots to avoid damage.In early February, as temperatures rise, apply winter fertilizer. Use fermented sheep manure and bone meal for nutrients. Dig a shallow trench along the edge of the pot and evenly bury the fertilizer. Avoid applying winter fertilizer too early.

Winter Rose Care Tips 💡

• For outdoor roses or large potted plants, when daytime temperatures drop to 0°C to -3°C (32°F to 26°F), water thoroughly and wrap branches with plastic film for protection. Place the plants in a sunny and sheltered location.

• For miniature roses or small seedlings, consider heavy pruning and moving them indoors to a sunny balcony. Ensure at least 6 hours of light daily and proper ventilation. While indoor roses may face issues like spider mites or powdery mildew, they usually recover naturally once spring arrives.

With proper care and a little patience, your roses can easily survive the winter and bloom beautifully when spring comes around. Happy gardening! 🌹✨