Planting bare root roses

Do not apply any fertilisers at planting time.

Do not apply fertilisers at planting time. Do not apply mycorrhiza or rooting products at planting time. Do not apply any feeding during the freeze risk period. Start feeding only after the risk of freezing has passed and the soil begins to warm, usually from April.

Products that push new roots or tender growth can trigger early activity before winter. Fine new roots and soft growth can be damaged by freezes, and in severe cases the whole plant can be affected. Keeping the plant quiet through winter helps it establish safely and start strongly in spring.

Do not apply fertilisers at planting time. Start feeding only after the soil is warming and at least one month has passed since planting. In practice, for bare root planting this is usually from April. Mycorrhiza and similar biological inoculants can be used, especially for spring planting and in mild winter areas.

Even without extended freezing, feeding at planting time can push growth before the roots have settled. Waiting until the plant is established helps it use nutrients more efficiently, with steadier growth.

For bare root roses, do not feed in December, January, or February. Start feeding in spring, usually from April, and not earlier than one month after planting.

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 about 40 by 40 by 40 cm. This gives the roots loose soil to grow into, especially in compacted ground.

Before planting, soak the roots in water for 10 to 12 hours. This helps rehydrate the plant after transport. Then ensure good contact between roots and soil. Dip the roots in a simple slurry made from water and garden soil with a creamy consistency. This helps remove air pockets and improves root contact.

Place the rose in the hole with the roots spread naturally. Set the graft union at soil level. In areas with regular winter freezes, place the graft union 1 to 2 cm below soil level. Backfill with fine soil and firm gently to remove air pockets.

Water thoroughly after planting, at least 10 litres per rose. If there is no rain, keep the soil moderately moist for the next two weeks.

If you plant in autumn, leave the canes longer and do the main pruning in spring, cutting back to 4 to 5 buds. If you plant in spring, prune at planting time to 4 to 5 buds.

This section applies only to areas with regular winter freezes. If you plant in autumn in a freeze prone area, mound soil over the graft union once cold nights become stable. Use fine, crumbly soil. Do not mound too early. Do not cover with plastic. In mild winter areas, winter mounding is optional.

Keep the roses in a cool, shaded place, inside the packaging, to prevent dehydration, and plant as soon as possible.

Focus on watering and letting the plant settle. Do not feed for at least one month. For bare root planting, feeding usually begins from April, depending on local temperatures and growth stage.