Fall and winter care produces better roses

Take care of your roses in the fall and winter for the best spring blooms. It's true that roses are relatively winter hardy. However, there are a few things that will help them winter better. Don't forget about caring for roses in the fall and winter if you want pretty roses in the spring and summer.

Weeding and mulching around roses in the fall will save you work in the spring. Some weeds survive in the winter, stealing moisture and nutrients from roses and other perennials. Mulch will also help roses retain water in the winter months.

Water and feed roses well just before the first frost. Be sure to also water roses throughout the winter when needed. Usually snow does this job for Denver gardeners. Still, there are those drought years to consider. Water only when the temperature is above 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do not prune roses heavily in the fall. Wait until spring for optimum new growth next season. Pruning roses in the fall can stunt their growth the following year. Prune only to shape and dead head, rather than changing the size of the bush.

Roses are cold hardy. However, taking these steps will produce a much healthier rose in the spring. Be kind and gentle to your roses in the fall and winter. Keep the weeds away, keep them watered and gently shape them in the fall for ultimate spring blooms.