Can Miniature Roses Take Freezing Temperatures?

Hardiness

• As with other types of roses, cold hardiness of miniature roses varies considerably, depending on the cultivar. However, most miniature roses are hardy to at least U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone 6. That makes them capable of withstanding average winter lows of minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Culture

• Plant miniature roses in full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Space the roses 12 inches apart. Plant several of the same variety together for the biggest impact. Miniature roses have shallow roots, so plant them 1 inch or so deeper than they grew in the container to keep the roots cool and moist. Feed, mulch and prune miniature roses just as you would larger varieties, but reduce the amount of fertilizer, as their root systems are smaller. Container-grown miniature roses need more frequent watering than those in the ground. Good drainage is important for their winter survival.

Winter Protection

• Because miniature roses grow on their own roots and aren't grafted onto a different rootstock as are hybrid tea roses, they're much hardier than the larger hybrid teas. Prepare miniature roses for the winter by partially covering them in late fall. Mound soil over the crown of the rose, then add a loose covering of leaves, leaving the top of the plant exposed. The bush could be smothered if the whole plant is covered. Gradually remove the winter protection in the spring as the temperatures rise. Container-grown miniature roses should be moved into a sheltered location in late fall.

Recommended Cultivars

• Miniature roses that have proved to be hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture growing zones 4 and 5 include the white cultivar Irresistible, the reds Chelsea Belle and Black Jade, and the pink cultivar Minnie Pearl. Other cold-tolerant miniature rose cultivars include Jean Kenneally, Rise 'n' Shine and Purple Dawn. Always read the plant label carefully to make sure the cultivar is hardy in your area if it is going to be planted outside.