The best protection for roses against winter-kill is to maintain healthy plants throughout the growing season and to make sure they do not suffer from lack of moisture during dry winters. Additional winter protection is often recommended, particularly for hybrid teas and grandifloras. Because the rootstock of most modern hybrid roses is of subtropical origin, roses need some winter protection to protect the roots. If rose bushes have had considerable growth, the foliage also may be subject to winter damage from snow and wind. All tall plants should be pruned by one-third of their height in November or if that date is missed, then in mid-April. To help prevent the spread of some diseases, all leaves and debris should be removed from the ground in December. After the night temperatures drop to 20 degrees Fahrenheit for several days, soil should be mounded over the rose crown eight to ten inches deep. Bring soil in from other parts of the garden to avoid disturbing the roots of the plant being covered. Other suitable mulching materials include pine needles, boughs, leaves, rotted manure or sawdust. Mulching protection is important because it keeps the soil at a uniform temperature reducing the possibility of early growth that could be frost damaged, and to protect the vital parts of the plants from extreme changes in temperature in late winter and early spring. The mulch should be removed gradually in the spring after the danger of hard frost has passed. Climbing roses can benefit from being completely covered with burlap during the winter to prevent wind desiccation. Selecting appropriate rose varieties for the growing zone, choosing proper planting sites and following good cultural practices will minimize insect and disease problems. For more information on winter care of roses, see PlantTalk Roses: Winter Care, For recommended roses see: Selecting and Planting Roses

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