What Type of Mulch Do You Use for Your Roses?

Natural Protection From Winter Damage

• Wild rose bushes are found in every state. Mother Nature provides natural insulation for wild roses from the grasses, leaves and debris that blow on the wind and are caught in the thorny, sharp brambles. In northern climates, snow provides a heavy layer of protection.

  Gardeners in northern states should wait until the ground is frozen to mulch their roses. Frozen ground will deter mole and mice from tunneling into the mulch and nibbling on the base of the rose bush. Build a 12 to 24 inch mound of dirt covered by chicken wire around the base of the rose bush. Cover with a layer of heavy newspaper and cover with straw to keep squirrels and rabbits from browsing on your bushes.

Pine Straw

• Layer 1 to 2 cubic feet of pine straw around the base of each rose bush in the garden. Pine straw helps retain moisture while protecting roots from extreme drops in temperature. Pine straw is lightweight, does not attract termites and is easy to use.

  Sprinkle 1 cup of garden lime or gypsum on top of the pine straw and water lightly. Lime or gypsum provide needed calcium for rose root development. Apply lime if your soil is acidic, gypsum if soil tests alkaline.

Untreated Wood Chips

• Apply mulch in the fall. Prior to mulching, rake up all dead rose leaves that can harbor mold, mildew and other diseases or parasites that harm rose bushes. Apply a 12- to 18-inch layer of non-treated wood chips or sawdust around the base of rose plants. Wood chips help protect the rose canes from mice that nibble and cause damage. Wood chips also help retain soil moisture and prevent weed growth. Peat moss or crushed coconut shells may be substituted for wood chips or sawdust.

Pine Bark

• A 6- to 8-inch layer of pine bark will help protect roses in southern climates. It is readily available and inexpensive. Purchase pine bark from local home and garden supply stores. Pine bark helps prevent weed growth and provides protection from all but the very coldest weather. Pine bark also helps prevent moisture evaporation and aids in controlling new weed emergence.