Planting roses

Roses are starting to bloom and it’s a good time now, with the soil being warmer to plant them in the garden. Here’s our guide to planting for success;

Planting times

• Bare-root roses: Late autumn (October–November) to early spring (March), while the plant is dormant.
• Container-grown roses: Anytime during the growing season (spring to early autumn), as long as the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Choosing the Right Spot

• Sunlight: At least 6 hours of direct sun per day is ideal.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid waterlogged areas.
• Airflow: Good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases.

Planting Instructions

Prepare the soil

• Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
• Mix in well-rotted manure or garden compost with the soil.
• Add bone meal or rose fertiliser if desired.

Planting

• Bare-root: Soak roots in water for a few hours before planting.
• Position the bulb just at or slightly below soil level.
• Backfill and firm the soil gently.

Water thoroughly

• Water well after planting and keep moist during the first growing season.

Aftercare

• Mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Feed with a rose fertiliser in spring and again after the first bloom.
• Prune annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

Recommended Rose Varieties for the UK

• ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ (strong fragrance, repeat flowering)
• ‘The Lady Gardener’ (rich scent, apricot blooms)
• ‘New Dawn’ (vigorous climber, blush pink)
• ‘Queen Elizabeth’ (classic hybrid tea)
• ‘Rosa rugosa’ (great for hedging and wildlife)