Winterizing Knock Out Roses

Paula from SE Michigan writes

“I recently purchased and planted two Blushing Knock Out roses. I live in SE Michigan and the nursery told me to plant them right away, which I did this week. So far, they look great. Here’s my question: I ordered one more which is not scheduled to ship until Nov. 9 and am wondering if I should also plant that one or keep it inside until spring? Also, should I cover the other 2 for the winter (I put a lot of mulch at the bases)? Thanks in advance!”

Hi Paula

Nov 9 is going to be another month away from when the nursery told you to plant your knock out roses “straight away” so you might be pushing it. I’d play it safe and keep it in your garage until spring. Water it once a month and it should be fine.

SE Michigan is considered USDA zone 5 (some say USDA zone 6 now due to the climate getting warmer) and from research I’ve done there are mixed opinions about whether to protect knock out roses in winter in zone 5; some folk Read more »