Overwintering Potted 'Don Juan' Climbing Rose in Zone 5a

Winter Care for Container-Grown Don Juan Rose

Zone 5a gardener has 'Don Juan' in pot, doing beautifully. Asks how far to prune before bringing indoors before first frost.

Pruning Restraint Critical

• If space allows: DON'T PRUNE
• If must reduce: maximum 4 feet
• Severe pruning can revert climbers to bush habit
• Prune only enough to fit through door

Timing: Wait for Dormancy

• Don't bring in before frost unless unheated space
• Roses need cold to draw sap down and harden canes
• Premature warmth = weak growth = cold death
• Wait for leaf drop, THEN move to unheated area

Hardiness Note

'Don Juan' is half 'New Dawn' (very hardy). Will survive if managed correctly.