Fall Rose Care
(USDA Hardiness Zone 6: Typical first frost: mid-to-late October; hard freeze: November)
1. Stop Fertilizing (by early September)
By September, roses should begin preparing for dormancy. Fertilizer encourages tender new growth that won’t survive frost. Stop all feeding about 6 weeks before your expected first frost.
2. Reduce Deadheading
Continue removing spent blooms only until mid-September. After that, leave the last blooms on the bush — this signals the plant to slow growth and form hips (seed pods), which help trigger dormancy naturally.
3. Light Pruning (late October–early November)
Before winter winds arrive: Trim long, whip-like canes to about 24–30 inches to prevent wind damage.
Remove dead or diseased wood.
Avoid heavy pruning — wait until spring, after the danger of frost passes, for major shaping.
4. Clean Up Around Plants
Rake and discard all fallen leaves, petals, and debris. Do not compost diseased material — bag and dispose of it.
5. Water Well Before the Ground Freezes
Deeply water your roses in late fall, especially if autumn has been dry. Moist soil holds warmth and helps protect roots from freeze damage.
6. Mulch for Winter Protection
Apply mulch after the ground begins to freeze (usually late November): Pile 6–8 inches of mulch, compost, shredded leaves, or straw around the base.
You can use rose collars or wire cages filled with leaves for extra protection.
7. Protect the Canes (for tender varieties)
Hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbers may need extra protection: Mound soil or compost 8–12 inches high around the base before mulching. After the soil mound freezes, cover the plant loosely with evergreen boughs or burlap. Avoid plastic — it traps moisture and causes rot.
8. Care for Climbing Roses
Do not prune heavily in fall. Remove only dead or weak canes.
Gently tie canes to a trellis or fence to prevent wind whipping.
In very cold spots, detach and lay them on the ground, then cover with leaves or burlap.
9. Container Roses
Move potted roses into an unheated garage or shed once frost is regular.
Water occasionally to keep soil just slightly moist (not dry or soggy).
10. Rose Hips
If you leave some blooms, you’ll see rose hips (orange-red fruit) form. They add color to the fall garden and feed birds. You can also harvest and dry them for tea or decoration.