Question
QUESTION: I just purchased a knock out tree rose that has a zone listing of 4 which is the zone I live in.  Is it possible to over winter this rose in the ground outside or do I need to bring it inside?  This is my first experience with a tree rose so any tips for care would be fabulous. Thank you!

ANSWER: Because tree roses are basically an understock rose with a modern rose budded onto the top, it means that the modern rose is growing a way up in the air and in the winter will be blasted with the cold. This means  that in all probability will kill it. I wouldn't take the chance and would bring it into an unheated garage for the winter. Don't take it in until after all the leaves have fallen off when it is still outside. Then you will know that it is complexity dormant. The main difference between a tree rose and a bush rose, is that the base of the modern rose is not protected deep in the soil. They still need water and monthly fertilizer to do well. If the tree rose is over 24 inches, it would be a wisdom to place a stake right next t the stem and stop it just under the base of the top rose. Tie it firmly to the tree rose stem at the base, the centre and nude the top. Tree roses do have a habit of breaking easily when a wind  blows on them so they rock and dislodge the roots or they are accidentally bumped. Shorter trees usually don't have these problems. Tree roses look really levant in a container with the base surrounded with annuals. This keeps the roots cool which roses like plus makes the plant look attractive.

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QUESTION: Thank you for your response.  If I bring the rose into the garage for the winter, what kind of care does it need during those months?  Will I need to cover it or water it?  My garage is unheated and in a pot, the whole plant, soil and all, will freeze solid.  I have also read that it is a possibility to dig up the tree rose and then dig a trench and bury the whole thing underground, digging it up again in the spring.  Is that method better or worse?  Thanks again!

Answer
Use a large type bubble wrap around the container covering the rose but leave the top open. Even Grannies old comforter will do. Don't place it near a window as light will activate it into growth. Give 1 cup of water each month to the rose. If you have some area where you could the tree  at least 12-18' deep, it will survive the winter.  Lay the rose on it's side in the hole, pot and all. Line the hole with shredded leaves or soil. Make sure the rose has dropped all it's leaves off and is dormant before you bury it.  Dig the hole in early fall and have it ready in case the really cold weather sets in and the ground is frozen.