| Roses, like most plants, should be mulched year round with two to three inches of organic mulch such as rotted chopped leaves, partially finished compost, double shredded hardwood bark, straw, or similar material that is locally available at reasonable cost. The mulch helps to keep the soil temperature even and reduces moisture loss. It also helps keep down weeds and feeds the soil and improves its structure as it breaks down over time. The mulch can be fluffed and replenished as needed, and mulch materials may be mixed and matched. In winter, some roses benefit from additional mulch and may benefit from having insulating materials piled over the base of the plant. This would depend on what kind of rose you are growing because some roses are so hardy that they do not need such special treatment. |
