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Roses often get a reputation for being high-maintenance—but in Minnesota, winter survival is less about fuss and more about choosing the right approach. Before you start preparing winter protection, the first and most important step is to determine what type of rose you have.

Some roses are bred specifically to handle our cold winters, while others need a little extra help to make it through.

Step One: Know Your Rose’s Hardiness

Many modern roses have been developed in Canada and the northern United States to survive harsh winters with little to no protection. If your rose is rated Zone 3 or Zone 4 hardy, it may not need special winter care beyond proper fall cleanup and mulching.

When Winter Protection Is Necessary

If your rose is not Zone 3–4 hardy, winter protection is essential. In Minnesota, cold temperatures, drying winds, and freeze–thaw cycles can severely damage canes and roots.

For non-hardy roses, there are two proven overwintering methods:

• Mounding (simpler and most commonly used)
• Tipping (more labor-intensive, but preserves more of the plant)

Option 1: Mounding Roses for Winter

Mounding is the most straightforward way to protect tender roses.

How to mound roses:

1. After a hard frost, cut roses back to 8–12 inches tall
2. Cover the entire plant with soil, forming a mound
3. Add approximately 12 inches of leaves or straw over the soil
4. Use chicken wire or a similar barrier to hold mulch in place if needed

The soil protects the crown and lower canes, while the mulch insulates against temperature swings.

Option 2: Tipping Roses for Maximum Protection

The Minnesota Tip Method is more involved, but it allows you to preserve more of the rose’s structure—especially helpful for hybrid teas and other tender types.

How to tip roses:

1. Carefully tie all stems together into a single bundle
2. Dig a trench extending outward from the base of the rose
3. The trench should be large enough to accommodate the entire plant
4. Gently loosen the roots on one side
5. Slowly push the rose sideways into the trench
6. Refill the trench with the removed soil
7. Cover the entire area with about 12 inches of leaves or straw
8. Use chicken wire if needed to keep mulch in place

This method keeps canes protected below ground level, where temperatures are more stable.

When and How to Uncover Roses in Spring

Roses can be uncovered once the ground has thawed—typically early April in the Twin Cities.

Spring care tips:

• Gently remove mulch and soil
• Untie and reposition canes carefully
• Water thoroughly
• Prune out any dead or damaged stems

Avoid uncovering too early, as late cold snaps can still cause damage.

Winter Success Starts with the Right Plan

Overwintering roses in Minnesota doesn’t have to be intimidating. By understanding your rose’s hardiness and choosing the appropriate protection method, you can enjoy healthier plants and better blooms year after year.

If you’re unsure which roses need protection—or which method is best for your garden—the team at Sunnyside Gardens is always happy to help you plan for winter success.