Planting roses to enjoy this year

Establishing bare root roses early ensures an exuberant show of these blowsy scented flowers later in the year

the sumptuous blooms of the English rose permeate gardens with sweet fragrance and ruffled petals. Easy to grow, bare root roses can be planted from late winter to early spring and will establish quicker than those grown in containers.

Bare root roses are usually good quality and have a wider root spread than containerised roses. Planted earlier in the growing season, the plant’s energy is focused on establishing a strong root structure, rather than extensive leaf and flower growth. This results in a more vivacious display during flowering.

Though bare root roses can be ordered at any time of year, they cannot be delivered until the plant is dormant. Once it is no longer producing new growth, the plant can be safely lifted from the ground.

It is recommended to buy from a garden centre or mail order supplier, rather than a supermarket, since these run a higher risk of the roots having dried out.

The bare root rose will need to be planted as soon as possible after purchase. If the ground is not suitable to plant during periods of snow or frost, the plants can be kept in a container of slightly moist compost. The roots should remain covered for protection during this time and to prevent them from drying out until the ground is ready for planting.

aftercare

Once established, the plant should be watered once a week or more often during long spells of dry weather. It is best to water as close to the base of the plant as possible. Watering the foliage can lead to disease, particularly if the leaves are left wet overnight. New roses should be pruned back by one third to help concentrate the plant’s energy in strengthening its roots. Any dead or damaged wood is removed to encourage stronger canes. Withered roses should be deadheaded, cut or pinched just below where the base of the flower joins the stem. Once all the blooms have finished, the entire flowering head is cut just above the first leaf with five leaflets. This will prevent the roses from producing seeds, so that energy is spent on a vibrant flourish the following year.

“But the rose leaves herself upon the brier, For winds to kiss and grateful bees to feed”

John Keats, ‘On Fame, II’

The bare root rose is lowered into a prepared planting hole. The hole should be wide enough to hold the roots when spread out. A cane can be used to judge the depth.

1. Step 1: The bare root rose is placed in a bucket of water for approximately 30 mins prior to planting. This will ensure the roots are well hydrated.

2. Step 2: The soil is forked over and any weeds or stones removed. A hole is dug, approximately 16in (40cm) wide and 2ft (60cm) deep. A spadeful of manure in the base will help the roots establish more effectively.

3. Step 3: The bare root rose is placed in the centre of the hole and the roots spread out. The hole is then backfilled with compost. The soil is lightly firmed around the base of the plant with the heel of the boot. This will ensure it is secure, and there are no air pockets.

4. Step 4: The bucket of water used to soak the roots is then poured over the newly planted rose. The plant should be watered every 2-3 days until well established.

Rosa ‘Sweet Memories’.