by Norman Green

Created on: January 15, 2011

Roses are some of the most beautiful plants that can be grown in a garden.  They will  reward the proper care and attention with years of wonderful blooms, some varieties lasting twenty years or more. To achieve this one must do one's utmost to ensure that they are planted correctly.  But before we even consider planting a rose we should think where we are going to plant it!

Roses require plenty of sunlight, so an open aspect is ideal. They will put up with some light shade, especially  during the early afternoon, but will not thrive in deep shade. They will grow, but will not achieve their potential, either in size, or quantity of flowers. Some shelter from cold winds is also important, as no ornamental plant likes to be too exposed. Next consider the type of soil the rose is to be planted into. Roses prefer a light to medium loam, which can be slightly acidic, but must contain plenty of organic material and be rich in nutrients. Roses require good drainage, and so a heavy clay soil must be improved by digging in compost or well rotted manure, preferably some months before planting. Roses will not thrive if the soil is either lacking in nutrients or prone to water-logging. If you are re-planting  an old rose bed you may want to consider removing the topsoil and bringing in new fresh soil. The old soil will be exhausted of nutrients and may harbour diseases and pests.

Also ensure that the roses have plenty of space to grow, as they do not like to be overcrowded. This will ensure a good circulation of air around the individual plants,  lessening the likelihood of fungal diseases such as mildew and blackspot, which thrive in airless damp conditions.

Now we are ready to plant our roses. Make sure you buy good quality roses from reputable garden centers or nurseries. If you can visit a specialist rose grower and talk to the plantsmen. They have a wealth of knowledge and will be able to answer your questions. Roses can be either bought all year round as container plants, or in the winter months as dormant bare-rooted plants. Container plants are more convenient but more expensive. Bare-rooted roses offer better value and can also be bought in confidence on-line nowadays. Whichever you choose the basic planting procedure is the same.

Do not plant if it is too cold or too wet. Plant in early autumn or spring. You can plant in summer but you will have to water your rose a lot. Winter planting is not advisable. 

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