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Protecting Roses for the Winter

In many sections of the country roses need protection in order to carry them successfully through the winter. In late November, after the plants have become thoroughly dormant and somewhat hardened to the cold, earth should be banked up about the bushes to a height of six or eight inches. A layer of well-rotted manure may then be placed about the roots of each plant and a generous covering of leaves heaped over the entire bed until only the tops of the bushes are left exposed. Early in the spring the leaves should be removed and the earth which was used for mounding up can be worked back into the bed over the covering of manure. Manure is not always available, but it is wise to use it if possible, for it not only gives considerable protection but also maintains the fertility of the soil.