Yellow Leaves on 'Leverkusen' Climber and Winter Rose Losses

Diagnosing Yellow Foliage on a New Climber

'Leverkusen' climber planted bare-root in May shows yellowish new growth despite good water and aged manure. Other established roses had poor overwintering despite usual protection.

'Leverkusen' Leaf Color

This variety naturally has yellow-green foliage. Wait—if leaves turn fully yellow, then investigate. Likely normal.

Winter Protection for Cold Climates

• Plant deeper: graft union 6+ inches below soil.
• Mound 8 inches of compost/bark/soil over base in late fall.
• Don't scrape soil from near rose—exposes roots.

Spring Frost Damage

Early spring growth followed by hard frost kills tender buds. This often causes more dieback than winter cold itself.

Monitor 'Leverkusen'; if growth is vigorous and only color is pale, it's varietal character.