Planting potted roses

Do not apply any fertilisers at planting time. Wait at least one month after planting before feeding.

Pick a sunny, airy spot with at least four hours of direct sun per day. Avoid areas where water collects. Roots can rot in waterlogged soil.

Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the pot. Loosen the soil at the bottom so roots can settle easily.

The key is to keep the root ball intact. Do not shake soil off the roots. If the root ball breaks, the plant can stall and struggle to establish.

The graft union is the swollen point where the rose was grafted, just above the roots. After planting, it should sit at soil level. In areas with regular winter freezes, place it 1 to 2 cm below soil level.

Place the rose in the hole, keeping the root ball intact. Make sure the graft union is at soil level, then backfill with fine soil and firm gently to remove air pockets.

Water thoroughly after planting, at least 10 litres per rose. Water deeply so moisture reaches the full root zone. Avoid frequent small watering that only wets the surface. For the first 14 days, keep the root zone evenly moist. As a rule, water deeply every 2 to 3 days if there is no rain.

Make sure water does not stand around the plant. If water pools after rain, improve drainage. Constant wet soil can lead to root rot.

Your potted rose may arrive with shortened canes. This helps the plant focus on rooting and settling in. You may lose one flush of flowers, but the plant will establish better and grow more vigorously for the next flushes.

It is fine to keep potted roses for up to two weeks before planting so they can settle after transport. Keep them in a bright place with morning sun and shelter from harsh midday sun. Water deeply when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry. Do not let the pot dry out completely, and do not keep it constantly wet.

Focus on watering and letting the plant settle. Start feeding only after one month and only when the plant shows steady new growth.