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Bush Basics How to Plant a Rose Shrub in your Garden |
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Written by Shelly V.
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Friday, 18 August 2006 |
A rose has been a symbol of human emotion for centuries. Presented as an expression of love or deepest sorrow, a rose knows no boundaries. Their praises have been sung by poets and lovers alike, and now you too have decided to showcase your passion by planting a rose bush in your garden. Do not let yourself be frightened by the rumors of how difficult it is to maintain roses. Fear not, planting a rose bush in your garden is not nearly as complicated as people would have you believe. Follow these simple guidelines and you will be the envy of them all.
Before You Plant
There are thousands of varieties of roses to choose from. Before you purchase your rose bush you will need to decide what kind of rose you would like to have and where you want to plant it. You will need to choose a variety that will thrive in your zonal area. Visit your local nursery for advice. Do not be afraid to ask questions, a nursery is a great resource for educating yourself as well as for purchasing your plants. Ask your friends and neighbors about their rose bushes. Perhaps they have a rose bush that you have always admired. Ask them what type of variety it is and if it requires any special care. Understanding the different types of rose bushes available and how to care for them prior to purchasing will make it much easier to decide the best place for planting them in your garden. As you decide on the perfect location keep in mind that most roses require at least six hours of sunlight a day and that the soil must have adequate drainage for its roots.
When to Plant
Container grown rose bushes should be planted in late spring early summer. You can plant them in the summer months but be sure to water at least every other day if not every day, otherwise the roots will burn up. If you purchase bagged rose bushes it is recommended that you plant them in late winter or early spring. Be sure to soak the bare roots of the plant in water over night to awaken it from its dormant stage. Using sharp pruning shears, cut off the tips of the roots. Check the packaging for complete instructions.
Digging the Hole
Once you have found the location for planting it is time to prime the bed. Dig a hole that is two times the width of the rose container. Rose bushes have large extensive root systems that require lots of room.
Place the soil that you removed from the hole into a wheelbarrow and mix with equal parts of compost and topsoil. Once mixed put half of the mixture back into the hole. You may add a cup of phosphate fertilizer at this time (optional) .
Planting Your New Rose Shrub
Most rose bushes come with directions on how to plant and care for them. A general rule of thumb is to create a mound at the base of the hole and place the root system on top of the mound. Smooth the roots on top of the mound. If the root system fans out flatly or if the roots curl upward a mound is not necessary. Once the rootstalk is in place gently cover the roots with the soil mixture from the wheelbarrow. When you have filled the hole 2/3 full, fill the hole with water and allow to drain. After the water has drained finish filling the hole with the rest of the soil and water again. Tap the soil gentle to remove any air bubbles.
Caring for Your New Rose Bush
Newly planted rose bushes require one gallon of water a week, but by may need to adjust this depending on the climate. Pay attention to signs of stress. If the leaves begin to droop it needs more water. If the leaves turn yellow and start to tear you may need to decrease the amount of water you give it at one time. |