It’s rose planting time!

It’s that time of year when the online garden catalogues are full of beautiful blooms and we are tempted to reproduce the vision in our springtime gardens. But to realise the dream we need to observe a few key steps to ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

So here are some tips:

1. Selecting and preparing the site:
   Choose a sunny location with well-
   draining soil for your rose bushes. They need
   at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
   Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter; you
   can improve it by mixing in compost or well-
   rotted manure.
2. Preparing the rose:
   Before planting, soak the bare-rooted
   rose in water for several hours or overnight.
   This rehydrates the roots and helps reduce
   transplant shock. Inspect the roots for any
   damage or disease, and trim away any that
   appear unhealthy.
3. Digging the hole:
   Dig a hole that is about twice as wide
   and as deep as the root ball of the rose. This
   allows for ample room for the roots to spread
   out and establish themselves. Loosen the soil
   at the bottom of the hole to encourage root
   growth.
4. Planting the rose:
   Place the rose in the center of the hole,
   ensuring that the graft union (the swollen
   area where the rose variety is grafted onto
   the rootstock) is level with the soil surface. If
   the graft union is buried too deep, it can lead
   to rot and poor growth. Spread the roots out
   evenly in the hole.
5. Backfilling and watering:
   Backfill the hole with a mixture of native
   soil and compost. Gently tamp down the soil
   to remove air pockets and provide good soil-
   to-root contact. Water thoroughly to settle
   the soil and ensure that the roots are well-
   hydrated.
6. Mulching and care:
   Apply a layer of mulch around the base of
   the rose to retain moisture, suppress weeds,
   and regulate soil temperature. Keep the area
   around the plant free from weeds and provide
   regular watering, especially during dry
   periods.
   By following these steps, you’ll help
   your bare-rooted roses establish strong roots
   and flourish in their new environment. And
   hopefully you will be enjoying the fragrance
   and colour of your ‘queen of flowers’ in the
   month to come.