Regional Growing Guide: Western Mountains & High Plains
From the eastern slopes of the Cascade and Sierra ranges through the High Plains, this generally arid region battles bitterly cold winters, blustery spring winds, little rain and sometimes brutal summer heat. The soil presents challenges, too, be it alkaline, sandy, clay or infused with salt and boron. Fortunately, the severe climate poses few insect or disease problems. But the roses that thrive here must be cold hardy and survive wild swings in temperature. They often bear strong, leathery leaves to resist desiccation. They also appreciate regular irrigation, heavily amended soil, a thick layer of mulch and protection from the wind.
Select a season: Spring Early Summer Late Summer Fall
Clean Up Now, Reduce Work Later
Rake up and bag - don't compost - rose debris as it falls. Petals and leaves that drop can harbor fungal spores, which you don't want to keep around to cause trouble next spring.
Gather Mulch But Don't Spread it Yet
Begin collecting materials for fall mulching, but allow the soil to cool down before spreading a protective layer. It takes forever for soil temperatures to change, and our plants need to know that it's that time to rest. If you put out fresh mulch now, it will be like putting on another blanket, and the soil will stay warm longer, encouraging plants to keep growing. Mulch is supposed to keep the soil cold in winter, not warm.
Keep Pulling Weeds
Wander through the garden, enjoying the changes of fall and plucking any weeds. Keep the weeds from going to seed in your garden now, and they won't leave their progeny to peeve you next spring. Plus, removing weeds improves air circulation and minimizes competition for water and nutrients.
Check Container-Grown Roses
Make sure the drainage holes are not blocked on roses growing in containers. Roots will rot if left standing in water. Turn pots on their sides and use a screwdriver or thin bladed knife to free the drain hole from protruding roots or debris.
Allow Roses to Form Hips
By not cutting the faded flowers off and allowing rose hips to form, you will signal your plants to go dormant for the winter. Roses that are allowed to rest will be stronger plants. Migrating birds may eat the hips as they pass through the area.