Planting Bare Rooted Roses

Step 1

When roses arrive, don't leave them in the box. Unpack the roses keeping them moist at all times. Place the roses in a bucket of water. Keep them in the water for at least 1 hour but no longer than 2 days. When you are ready to plant them out, the most important thing to remember is to keep the rose root system wet at all times. Do not lay the roses out while planting. Pull them out of the bucket of water while planting so roots stay wet. Even on cold wet days never let the roots dry out. Note:It is very important not to add anything to the water. eg. no Seasol or root starter or anything. Just pure fresh water.

Step 2

When planting, do not add any fertiliser, compost or potting mix, especially under the roots. Just make a hole, plant firmly and make sure graft is around 3cm (1 inch) above the ground. Make sure the soil has no cavities around the rose system and is firm in the ground with no flimsy side to side movement. Add 100gms of organic fertiliser 4-6 weeks after planting. We use Amgro Organix extra spread over the top at around 30 cm diameter. Give them a good water but don't over do it.

Step 3

Now that your plants are safely in the ground it is important to remember that over watering and mulching roses in this early stage will set them back. When roses are in early stages of planting, they like to be kept damp but not soaking wet. If root systems are to wet they do not create new roots. Before you decide to water them again, scratch around the base of the rose. If it is damp, it will be perfect. We highly recommend mulching but at a later date when Summer arrives and dryer conditions start.

Staking standard roses is very iimportant. Using cheaper thin stakes, whether they are made from steel, wood or plastic, can end up with snapped stems in spring time as the roses have loads of flowers and foliage accompanied with heavy rain and wind. The ties you choose are equally important. The very top tie is the most important one so keep it as high as possible and make 100% sure that it cannot slip down the stake. You can use 25cm Velcro, rubber tubing or stocking.

Please call us for any additional information on 0481 542 142.

We are more than happy to help you get it right.