January might appear an odd month for garden tasks, but the snowfall now blanketing Britain could spell disaster for roses unless gardeners take immediate action. Roses are notoriously fussy about dampness, and frozen buds quickly turn fragile, split apart and perish during the winter months.
With temperatures swinging wildly at this time of year, rose roots that repeatedly freeze and defrost can trigger excessive moisture accumulation beneath the earth. This icy water doesn't just harm roses – it can rot the root system entirely and spawn persistent fungal problems that plague flower beds for ages.
Fortunately, Jennifer Arnott, gardening guru and brains behind The Fabulous Garden, has revealed that shielding roses from snowy conditions is straightforward – simply cover them with polystyrene protection. Rose cones (also known as rose huts) are protective shields that sit over roses to guard against snow, frost and bitter winds.
Setting up this protective measure is incredibly straightforward. Should your rose bush have any deceased or damaged branches, it's acceptable to trim these away to ensure the cone fits properly. However, January typically brings the harshest cold to the UK, and excessive cutting can expose the plant to frost damage. When healthy branches obstruct the fitting, it's preferable to simply bend them back rather than undertake severe pruning.
Subsequently, position the rose cone over the plant and pack it with earth. Ensure the soil isn't frozen solid or rock-hard, as this defeats the purpose of using the cone. Proceed to pack the cone with earth as near to the brim as possible, but avoid adding any compost or mulch since these materials tend to lure unwanted creatures such as mice.
Taking the effort to establish a rose cone will ensure the plant's safety regardless of how chilly the weather becomes in the forthcoming weeks, guaranteeing you'll greet spring with an abundance of buds primed to bloom into flowers.
