Roses flourish in cool temps, need sunlight in winter

Shimla: Temperature drops speedily in north India, especially at night. Rose has the quality to flourish in cool, but it is more sensitive in frigid temperatures. Mild daytime temperature is perfect for the bloom of roses. The flower needs sunlight to support photosynthesis and surge yield, even in winter. Therefore, it is essential to provide at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight to roses, especially in the morning, pruning the surroundings of plants to reduce shade.

Take well-prepared soil for roses in winter, then add some organic matter like compost or aged manure, which helps retain warmth and nutrients. The ideal soil pH for roses is around 6.0 to 6.5. Applying a thick layer (2-3 inches) of mulch around the base of the plants helps retain soil warmth, conserve moisture, and protect roots from the cold.

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Water roses deeply but not regularly, ideally in the morning, to avoid prolonged moisture. Focus on watering at the plant’s base, avoiding wet leaves to reduce disease risk. Sudden frost can damage buds, blooms, and tender branches, making frost protection necessary.

Cover roses with frost cloth, burlap, or light blankets on very cold nights, removing covers in the morning to allow sunlight. For roses in containers, consider moving them to a greenhouse or indoor location during chilly nights. Containers are more susceptible to temperature fluctuations, so they need extra protection to thrive.