Why Your Pink Rose Bush Turned Into a Red Climber

Why Your Pink Rose Bush Turned Into a Red Climber

Your rose didn't "change breeds" – it reverted to its rootstock. Most modern roses are grafted onto Dr. Huey (a vigorous red climber) for winter hardiness.

What Happened

1. A severe winter killed the grafted (pink) variety.
2. The hardy Dr. Huey rootstock survived.
3. In spring, Dr. Huey sent up its own canes – red, clustered blooms.

Prevention for Future Roses

• Winter protection: Mound soil/mulch over graft union in fall.
• Plant own-root roses when possible (no graft to fail).
• Monitor for suckers: Remove any growth from below the graft union promptly.

This is a common, frustrating experience – but with proper winter care, your chosen varieties will persist.