Q. Do all rose bushes produce rose hips in the fall?

A. Some rose bushes produce hips (which are actually the fruit or ovary of the plant) after September 1, when all deadheading of roses should stop. Species roses and Rosa rugosa are known for their showy hip production, which extends well into winter and often provides food for birds and animals. Allowing the roses to "go to seed" and produce their hips is an important part of their preparation for dormancy.