Rose School- Planting & Care Of Your Rose

One of our roses

Before we start delving into planting that new rose of yours, we have a comment question that maybe someone can help with! Mary from Oregon has some rose bushes that she would like to move more into the sun. The rose bushes are doing well where they are, so should she move them and what time of year should she move them? We look forward to any comments! Mary, we consulted the Western Garden Book on this (our 'bible') and it said most shrubs may be transplanted at any time of year, but to be assured of success, transplant in cool weather when the plant is dormant or semi-dormant. Dormant roses can be moved bare root but you should first dig and prepare your new hole before digging up the existing location so your plant's roots will not dry out.Maybe you could try one and see how it does in it's new location before you move them all?


Today is all about planting that new rose! As we mentioned before, if you chose a bare-root, be sure to soak the roots in a bucket of water overnight so they will be nice and plump when you plant them.


For best results, roses should be planted where they will receive full sun all day.To lessen foliage diseases, plant roses where air circulates freely, with generous spacing between plants. Soil should drain reasonably well.Dig the hole broad and deep enough to accommodate roots easily without cramping, or having to cut them to fit. Dig deeply, incorporating fertilizer and organic matter such as peat moss, ground bark or compost, then make a firm cone of the soil in the hole, reaching nearly to the surface. Spread roots over cone gently. You can place a stick  over the hole to gauge your surface level.Fill in backfill soil nearly to top of soil, making sure to firm it down as you fill. Then add water.


Once plant is watered and correct level has been fixed, fill in any remaining soil. Use any nearby or remaining soil to make a ridge around hole to form a watering basin. 

This rose smells like apples!

We know it sounds like a lot, but really it's a simple process. Once you have planted a few and enjoyed their beauty, we think you'll be glad you did!


Tomorrow, Rose School continues with diseases roses can get and what to do about them!