Time Winter Rose Pruning to Plant Slowdown in Southern California Gardens

Overview

• In mild Southern California winters, many perennials including roses keep some leaves and may continue to bloom lightly.
• Gardeners are advised to begin winter pruning once shorter days and cooler temperatures clearly slow new growth and flowering.
• Swiss chard is highlighted as a dependable cool-season crop for continuous harvest, with Rhubarb, Bright Lights and Erbette noted as varieties.
• Other productive options include escarole, radicchio, arugula and lettuces, while kale—especially Red Russian and Tuscan—performs well after cold reduces aphids and can be blanched and frozen.
• UC Master Gardener helplines in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties are available for localized guidance.