As summer turns into fall, you might notice small, round fruits starting to grow on your rose bushes. These are called rose hips. They form after the flower has faded and the plant begins to make seeds. Rose hips are not only interesting to look at—they’re also helpful to the plant and useful to gardeners.
Rose hips come in different shapes and colors, depending on the type of rose. Some are bright red or orange, while others may be brown or purple. They usually show up in late summer or early fall, and they stay on the plant even after the leaves begin to fall off. Many birds and small animals like to eat rose hips, so they are good for wildlife, too.
If you want your roses to make hips, stop deadheading them near the end of August. That way, the plant knows it’s time to get ready for fall and winter. Making hips helps slow down the plant’s growth and tells it to rest. This makes it stronger when cold weather arrives. If you are interested in growing new rose plants, you can take the seeds from the rose hip and process them to grow new plants! Obtaining seeds from a rose is not for the faint of heart. It is an arduous process with a low success rate. Additionally, you must be aware of the rose variety you are using, as some plants are protected by utility patents. Using seeds from such plants without permission could violate the breeder’s patent rights.
Some gardeners like to use rose hips in tea, jelly, or crafts. Rose hips are full of vitamin C and have been used in herbal medicine for many years. Just be sure your roses haven’t been sprayed with chemicals before using the hips for food or drink.
Even if you don’t plan to use rose hips, they add beauty to the garden in fall. Their color and shape can make your rose bushes look festive, even after the blooms are gone. Some people leave them on the plant all winter to enjoy their bright look in the snow.
Rose hips are a lovely reminder that roses have something to offer in every season. From bloom to fruit, they continue to surprise and delight us in the garden.