Siting and Planting Roses

The two most important things that get your roses off to a great start are to make sure they're in the right growing conditions and to plant them properly.

All roses grow best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter. Make sure your roses get at least 6 hours of direct sun a day; if they get less light, the plants won't bloom as well and will be more susceptible to attack from pests and diseases.

While some roses may tolerate shade a bit better than others; no roses prefer shady spots.

 

Bare-root roses are available in early spring and are sold simply as a set of roots packed in peat moss or a similar material that holds moisture well. It's best to purchase bare-root roses when they're dormant or just beginning to grow.

Learn more about planting bare-root roses.

Container-grown roses are typically a little more expensive than bare-root roses, but are easier to plant. Simply dig a hole about twice as wide (but no deeper) than the rose's pot. Take the rose out of the container and loosen the roots. Spread them out if they're growing in circles around the rootball. Place the roots in the hole and fill with the soil, making sure to water well after you plant it.

Learn more about planting container-grown roses.

Make sure you water your roses well after you plant them -- especially if you plant them in summer as they're most susceptible to drying out the first few weeks in your garden. Lay a 2- to 3-inch-deep layer of mulch over the soil around your roses. This helps the soil hold moisture and prevents weeds from growing. It can also act as a barrier to prevent soil-borne diseases from splashing up on the leaves as easily.