How to plant a bare root shrub rose
Our videos are filmed in the UK, and so some of the season timings mentioned will apply to the UK and some of the products featured won't be available in Australia. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions, or contact your local stockist.
WHEN TO PLANT BARE ROOT ROSES
Bare root roses are best planted between May and September. depending on region and supplier, during the bare root season. This gives them time to establish ready to bloom come summer. The only time we recommend that you don't plant is when the ground is frozen, waterlogged or in drought conditions.
Where to plant a bare root shrub rose?
We recommend following these guidelines:
- Make sure the rose has some sun, ideally at least 4 hours of sunlight a day.
- Generally, the more sun the better. However, in the hottest areas, shade from the afternoon sun can be beneficial.
- Ensure the rose has enough space, so that the roots do not suffer from intense competition from neighbouring plants, including trees and hedges.
How to plant a bare root shrub rose
Follow our step-by-step guide on how to plant a bare root shrub rose.
Step 1: Rehydrate your rose
Rehydrate your bare root rose in a bucket of water for a minimum of 2 hours prior to planting.
Step 2: Prepare your soil
Dig over the soil thoroughly, using the garden fork, and remove any weeds or large stones. This will ensure that the new roots can venture freely in their new environment. Roses will grow in all soil types.
Step 3: Dig the hole
Using a spade, dig a hole that is wide enough and deep enough to hold the rose’s root mass. This should be approximately 40cm wide x 40cm deep.
Step 4: Break the soil at the base of your hole
Using a fork, break up the soil at the base of the hole. This will allow the roots to go deeper into the soil.
Step 5: Add well-rotted manure
Mix a small spadeful of well-rotted farmyard manure with the soil in the bottom of the hole. This will add vital nutrients to the soil helping the rose to establish more effectively.
Step 6: Position your rose in the hole.
Position the rose in the centre of the hole. We recommend buryingthe bud union to protect the roots and give better stability, but local advice may differ. The bottom of the stems should be 5cm below the top of the hole - use a bamboo cane to help.
Step 7: Backfill soil & firm-in
Fill in and around the roots of the rose using the soil that was originally dug to make the hole. Then, lightly firm the soil around the rose with your foot.