Where to Plant

• Rose bushes like a sunny location, with at least six hours of sun each day. The soil should have good drainage with no standing water. They prefer an acidic soil in the pH range of 5.8 to 6.3. You can test your pH with a test kit, or take a sample of your soil to your local nursery for testing. If your pH is not in the right range, your nursery or agricultural agent can advise you on how to correct it.
  Plant your roses far enough apart to allow for air circulation. Bushes that are too crowded are prone to disease. Proper spacing depends on the bush. In general, plant the bushes about 2 feet apart. Miniature roses can be closer, while older varieties may need more space.
  
  

Bare Root Planting

• Bare root plants are plants which have no soil. The roots are wrapped in moss for shipping. The plant is shipped in a dormant state and must be planted while it is still dormant. If you are unable to plant it immediately, you can store it for a short period in a moist, cool environment, such as a basement. Plant in the early spring, to allow the plant time to develop a root system before the growing season.
  Prepare the bare root rose bush for planting by soaking the roots in a bucket of water for a day. Dig a large hole, at least 2 feet wide. Place a mound of dirt in the bottom of the hole and spread the roots out over the mound. Fill the dirt back into the hole, covering the roots. In cold climates, bury the rose bush a little deeper. The union bud between the roots and stem should be about 1 to 2 inches deep to protect the roots from cold. In the warmer climates of the south, the union bud can be placed at ground level.
  Mound about 8 to 10 inches of soil around the base of the plant to protect it from drying winds until growth starts. Mulch the area surrounding the newly planted rose bush, but leave a little clear space around the base of the bush. Make sure the area is free of weeds and grass that will compete for space and nutrients with the new bush. When the plant has begun to grow, in about two to three weeks, wash the mounded dirt away.
  Water the newly planted rose bush daily for the first week, then less frequently to keep the soil from drying out. Apply a rose fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.
  
  

Potted Plants

• Potted roses are already established and ready for planting at any time during the growing season. Remove the pot gently and place the root ball into a prepared hole. Fill the hole and water the plant well. Water daily for the first week, then water and fertilize as for bare root plants.