Millions of Brits grow roses in their gardens, and many hope for big, healthy blooms when spring arrives. However, experts warn that winter can cause serious damage if plants are not properly protected. Freezing temperatures, cold winds and constant frost can weaken stems, harm roots and even kill delicate graft unions on some varieties.
Roses naturally slow down as the weather turns colder, but they are still vulnerable. If the base of the plant is left exposed, the crown can freeze, and the grafted section can die back. When that happens, the rose may regrow from the wrong part of the rootstock, leaving gardeners with a plant that looks completely different from the one they planted.
With that in mind, gardeners are being urged to start winter preparation now, as early care can make a huge difference when new growth starts in spring.
Simple steps at the end of autumn can prevent winter dieback and help roses return stronger next year.
According to experts at Better Homes & Gardens, cold snaps, frost and sudden temperature drops are the biggest dangers for roses over winter, and protecting the base of the plant is essential.
One early step is to stop trimming roses in autumn. Allowing hips to form helps the plant slow down naturally, instead of producing fresh shoots that will be damaged the moment temperatures fall.
Experts also recommend watering roses well before the ground freezes. Moist soil protects roots more effectively than dry soil, providing the plant with extra support during the coldest months.
Long stems can also be cut back to reduce wind damage, as strong winter winds can snap tall canes or shake the plant enough to loosen roots.
Any dead or damaged stems can be removed in early spring once new growth begins.
But the most important job, the one gardeners are being urged to do now, is to cover the base of the plant with a thick mound of fresh soil.
This crucial task helps protect the crown and the graft union from freezing. A layer of soil acts like insulation, keeping the most vulnerable part of the rose stable through winter.
Dry leaves or bark can then be added on top for extra warmth.
In very cold parts of the UK, extra protection may be needed. Some gardeners dig a shallow trench next to the plant and gently lower the rose into it for winter.
Tree roses, which have grafts higher up, may need a simple frame built around them using stakes and burlap before being filled with dry leaves to keep out the cold.
Potted roses need protection too. Moving them into a sheltered spot, such as an unheated garage or a place close to the house, keeps the roots from freezing.
In harsher areas, placing pots inside boxes packed with shredded paper or leaves can help keep temperatures steady.
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