Planting bare root roses is a wonderful way to start or expand your garden with stunning blooms, and there's no better expert than David Austin Roses to guide you through the process. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just beginning your rose-growing journey, knowing when and how to plant these roses can make all the difference in their growth and bloom. In this blog, David Austin Roses shares their top tips for planting bare root roses, from the best time to plant to soil preparation and care tips for your new plants.
When is the best time to plant bare root roses?
The best time to plant bare root roses is between November and March, during their dormant season. This allows the roots to establish before spring and ensures the roses are ready to bloom by summer. Avoid planting when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.
How do I prepare the soil for bare root roses?
To prepare the soil for bare root roses, begin by clearing away any weeds and stones, making it easier for the roots to grow. Next, loosen the soil to a depth of 17.5” wide by 17.5” deep (45 x 45cm), and mix in some well-rotted manure or a good organic soil improver at the bottom of the hole. This will enrich the soil and help promote healthy root development.
How deep should I plant bare root roses?
The graft union should be buried 2-3 inches below soil level as this helps to anchor the rose into place and stabilise it, preventing wind rock. Planting the union bud at this level also discourages suckers from forming and protects the rose during the winter from freezing temperatures.
Do I need to soak bare root roses before planting?
Yes, soak the bare root roses in a bucket of water for at least two hours before planting. This helps hydrate the roots and prepares them for planting.
How far apart should I space multiple bare root roses?
When it comes to planting roses, you have some great options depending on the look you want to achieve. If you're planting single roses, you can mix different varieties or pair them with companion plants. Just be sure to give them enough space based on their mature width: for roses that grow to 2-3 feet wide, plant them 3 feet apart; for those reaching 3.5-4 feet, leave 4 feet between them; and for roses that mature to 4.5-5 feet, space them 5 feet apart.
If you're aiming for a fuller bush effect, try planting three of the same shrub rose together in a group. For plants that are 2-3 feet wide, place them 1.5 feet apart; for 3.5-4-foot plants, go for 2 feet; and for those that reach 4.5-5 feet wide, a spacing of 2.5 feet works best. This will create the appearance of a single larger shrub, although it might take a couple of years for that look to fully develop.
For a beautiful rose hedge, plant at least 5-10 roses of the same variety in a straight line. Plant them closer together than usual for a dense look: 1.5 feet apart for roses that mature at 2-3 feet wide, 2 feet apart for those at 3.5-4 feet, and 2.5 feet for the 4.5-5-foot varieties.
How often should I water newly planted bare root roses?
After planting, water the roses well, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moist. Continue to water regularly, especially in the early stages, but avoid waterlogging the soil. Keep the soil evenly moist during the establishment period.
Should I prune bare root roses before or after planting?
No, you don’t need to prune bare root roses before planting them; they’re all ready for you when they arrive. You can start pruning after the first year, during the rose’s dormant period. We consider Year One to be any rose that has finished its first season of flowering. At this point, your rose will still be focusing on establishing its roots for future growth, so just a light touch of pruning is all that’s needed. Keep in mind that repeat-flowering roses bloom on both new and old growth, so it’s best to be gentle during this early stage.
How long does it take for bare root roses to establish and bloom?
Bare root roses typically take a few months to start establishing their roots after planting. When you plant them between November and March, you can expect to see them bloom by summer. During the dormant season, they develop a strong root system, which is crucial for their growth. However, it takes about 3-4 years for a rose to become fully established and for its roots to reach their full potential.
What kind of fertiliser is best for newly planted bare root roses?
When planting bare root roses, using mycorrhizal fungi can significantly enhance root development. These beneficial fungi form symbiotic relationships with the rose roots, improving nutrient and water uptake.
However, it's important to note that feeding at the time of planting is generally unnecessary unless you are planting late in the bare root season, specifically in March. For bare root roses planted earlier in the winter, it's best to hold off on feeding until March.
In March, you should apply a controlled release rose fertiliser. This timing ensures that the plants receive the essential nutrients they need to establish robust root systems and promote healthy growth throughout the growing season.
How can I protect bare root roses from pests and diseases during their first growing season?
To protect your bare root roses from pests and diseases during their first growing season, it’s important to give them proper care. Start by feeding them with a controlled-release fertiliser in March and consider adding liquid seaweed for extra nutrients during the growing season. Ensure good air circulation by spacing the roses properly, which helps reduce problems like mildew, blackspot and rust.
When it comes to watering, give your roses a deep soak to encourage the roots to spread downwards in search of moisture. Be sure to water at the base of the plant rather than overhead, as wet leaves that stay damp overnight can encourage mould and other issues.
Applying mulch around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Finally, keep an eye on your roses and promptly remove any affected leaves as soon as you see them; if any leaves are diseased, it’s crucial to remove them immediately to prevent it spreading and protect the health of your roses.
Bare root roses offer an exciting opportunity to bring timeless beauty to your garden, and by following these expert tips from David Austin Roses, you'll be well on your way to growing healthy, flourishing roses. Remember to give your plants the care and attention they need, especially during their first year, and you'll be rewarded with blooms for many seasons to come. Happy planting!
