Allison Starcher is back with more helpful gardening tips. This time, it’s a video guide for planting bare-root roses. Whether you’re planting in the ground, in your garden, or in a pot on your patio, Allison shows you the best way to cultivate roses.
Allison Starcher’s Guide to Planting Bare Root Roses
- Select a site with full sun + good drainage
- Dig a hole 12″-15″ deep
- Add 6″ of organic potting mix
- Sprinkle in rose fertilizer at half the recommended strength. Too much may burn the new roots
- The bud union should be 1″ above the soil level in warm regions
Plant Preparation
- Soak the bare-root roses in a bucket of water for 12–24 hours.
- If you can’t plant them right away, store them in a cool, dark place.
- Remove any broken or damaged roots before planting.
- Cut off any long or straggly roots to encourage new growth.
- Loosen and spread out the remaining roots before placing them in the hole.
Soil Preparation
- Choose a planting site with rich, well-draining soil. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging.
- Test the soil pH and ensure it’s slightly acidic, ideally between 6.0 and 6.5.
- Remove all weeds and debris from the planting area to reduce competition.
- Work the soil to a depth of 12″-15″ to provide ample space for root development.
- Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and improve its structure.
- If the soil is heavy clay, add sand or gypsum to enhance drainage.
- Water the soil lightly a day before planting. It should be evenly moist but not soggy.
FAQs: Planting Bare Root Roses
Q: When is the best time to plant bare root roses?
The best time to plant is during their dormant season, typically late winter to early spring, before they begin to bud.
Q: How long should I soak bare root roses before planting?
Soak the roots in water for 12–24 hours before planting to rehydrate them and promote healthy growth.
Q: What type of soil is best for bare root roses?
Bare root roses thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Adding organic compost can improve soil quality.
Q: How far apart should I space bare root roses?
Depending on the variety, roses should be spaced 18″–36″ apart to allow sufficient room for growth and airflow.
Q: What should I do if the roots are too long for the planting hole?
Trim them slightly with clean, sharp pruning shears to fit comfortably in the hole without bending.
Q: How much water do bare root roses need after planting?
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots, and continue to water deeply 1–2 times a week, depending on weather conditions.
Q: Do I need to prune bare root roses right after planting?
Yes, prune the canes back to about 6–8 inches and remove any damaged or dead stems to promote new, robust growth.
Q: Should I fertilize bare root roses immediately after planting?
Use a weakened rose fertilizer, as too much can harm the delicate new roots. Avoid heavy fertilization until the plant establishes itself.
Q: How do I protect bare root roses from frost after planting?
Apply a mound of mulch at the base of the plant to insulate the roots and shield against late frosts.
Q: How long does it take for bare root roses to start blooming?
They typically begin blooming 8–12 weeks after planting, depending on the variety and environmental conditions.