How to over-winter roses?

Robert R
by Robert R

I have a mini rose that I need to protect from the Chicago winter. I have read all kind of conflicting advice.....what is your secret??

  4 answers
  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Oct 21, 2018

    Bring it in to a cool location. Be sure to treat the plant with 40 parts water to one part dish liquid first by spraying it all over to get any bugs that might be on the plant. Leave for ten minutes and then spray off .

    Quite often fungus gnats bury themselves in the soil around the base of the plant, so be sure to get some of the soapy water on the soil to kill them off. Fungus gnats come to the surface when you water and can be a terrible nuisance. Check for aphids too. After cleaning the plant, do not water until it is dry and then do so sparingly during the winter.

  • 16999903 16999903 on Oct 21, 2018

    Hello Fli! I live in Central Texas so I'm afraid I can't help. And you have read a lot of material, so that rules out links. Do you have anyone in your neighborhood that has mini roses? A friendly knock on the door with glowing compliments of their garden might lead you to some answers. It looks like the best bet might be to take some photos or clippings to a mom and pop garden center for the best advice. I love rose gardens...especially mini roses. Best of luck!

  • 2dogal 2dogal on Oct 28, 2018

    Is this planted outside or in a pot?? If in a pot, bring it inside after spraying it with water for any bugs. Make sure it has enough light and water while inside.

    If it's outside, mulch very well- at least 3 inches of mulch out past the ends of the branches as the roots grow out that far. Cover if the temperature gets close to and freezing. I use old fleece blankets from the thrift store. Snow is OK as it holds warmth, although it's good to cover then too. It's the freeze that kills.

  • Mary Mary on Oct 28, 2018

    I mulch mine at the base and cover for the winter with rose cone or a tomato wire support stuffed with leaves and wrap the u\outside of the wire in plastic . I live in Illinois