While gardening jobs are quietening down for the winter, there is still plenty to be getting on with. This includes planting bare-root roses, which arrive in their dormant state and take a few months to bloom.
Because of this, they are often cheaper to purchase, making them a great option for beginner gardeners. The experts at David Austin Roses said: “Bare-root roses are a fantastic option for gardeners looking to introduce beauty into their outdoor spaces. They are cost-effective, easy to handle and have long been the traditional choice for planting roses, encouraging gardeners to slow down and enjoy the process of nurturing their garden from the ground up.”
According to the rose experts, the “ideal time” to plant this variety is during its dormant period. This typically runs between October and April.
Planting during this period allows the roots to establish before the growing season begins. This means November is a great time to plant bare-root roses to ensure they flower well next year.
Select a spot in your garden that receives at least four hours of sunlight each day and has good air circulation to minimise the risk of disease.
The pros added: “Before planting, soak the roots in water for at least two hours to rehydrate them.
“If immediate planting isn’t possible, store the roses in their original packaging in a cool, dry place for up to three weeks, ensuring they are protected from frost.”
When it comes to planting, dig a hole twice as wide and slightly deeper than the root system, making sure to enrich the soil with compost.
Place the rose in the hole, spreading the root system, and then refill the hole with soil before gently firming it down and watering it thoroughly.
The experts said: “For container planting, choose a pot at least 18 inches deep and wide, with proper drainage holes. Use a 50-50 mix of John Innes No3 compost and good-quality multi-purpose compost to provide essential nutrients.
“Add a layer of broken ceramic pots or gravel at the base for drainage, then plant the rose as you would in the ground, ensuring the union graft remains two to three inches below the surface.”
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