A gardening expert shares essential March tasks for roses
Sophie Harris Senior Lifestyle Reporter
10:51, 16 Mar 2026
Roses will bloom beautifully when you look after them properly(Image: Getty)
Roses remain amongst the most beloved garden plants, flourishing in both containers and borders. Available in numerous colours, they’ll shortly be blooming throughout the country.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, cultivating roses may prove simpler than anticipated. Planting them at this time allows roses to settle in before the spring growing season begins.
Richard King, garden expert at Dino Decking, explained: “Healthy roses start with good care, plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and the right pruning and feeding routine will keep them thriving year after year.”
To assist gardeners, the expert has provided several tips on planting roses, including one essential task for March, reports the Express.
Select the appropriate rose variety
Different rose types are suited to various gardens and growing conditions, the expert noted. For instance, hybrid tea roses represent a traditional option, recognised for their large, elegant blooms that are perfect for cutting.
Roses will soon be thriving if gardeners complete a simple task before April(Image: Getty)
When planting roses, bare-root roses should be planted between November and March.
Factor in sunlight and soil quality
The expert advised: “Roses love sunlight, so make sure to plant them in a location with at least six hours of direct sun per day to encourage strong growth and abundant blooms.
“It is also important to consider the soil when growing a rose bush. Roses thrive in rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Heavy, waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.
“Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature, creating the perfect environment for healthy, thriving roses. Adding compost or a balanced fertiliser can also help provide essential nutrients to aid growth.”
Avoid excessive watering
Roses typically don’t need frequent watering during this period, and excessive moisture can promote fungal diseases such as black spot or powdery mildew.
In dry conditions, watering once every fortnight to three weeks is sufficient, though rainfall may eliminate the need for watering altogether.
Trimming
The specialist noted: “With hybrid tea and floribunda roses, remove any dead or weak stems to encourage strong, healthy growth by cutting them back to around 15 to 30cm from the ground.
“Climbing and rambling roses should be tidied up and lightly shaped, whilst shrub roses require only a light prune to maintain their shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
“Proper pruning now will set your roses up for a season of vibrant blooms.”
Comments are closed.