As the days get colder, it’s time to start getting your roses ready for winter. One of the best ways to protect them is by using mulch. Mulch is a layer of material placed around the base of a plant to help keep it warm and safe from freezing weather.
There are different types of mulch you can use. Some people use shredded leaves, bark, straw, or compost. Mulch helps keep the ground warm and holds in moisture. It also helps stop weeds from growing and can even add nutrients to the soil.
Before you mulch, clean up around your rose bushes. Remove any fallen leaves, old flowers, or weeds. This helps prevent bugs and diseases from staying in the soil over winter. You can also cut off any dead branches that look weak or broken.
Once the area is clean, pile the mulch gently around the base of your rose bush. For colder areas, build it up about 8 to 12 inches tall. Make sure not to press it too tightly—roses still need some air around their roots.
Mulching doesn’t just protect the rose—it protects your hard work. Without it, the freezing and thawing of the soil can damage the roots. A good layer of mulch helps your rose rest safely until spring returns.
Think of mulch as a cozy winter blanket for your roses. It’s one of the last gifts you can give your garden before it goes to sleep for the season and it is a great gift to give in October or November.