When it comes to growing vibrant, long-lasting rose bushes, the placement of your plants can make all the difference. While planting roses in decorative pots or containers may seem like a great idea, an expert suggests that this approach might not be the best for keeping them alive and flourishing during the summer months.
As temperatures rise, the soil in pots can dry out quickly, making it challenging for your rose bushes to retain the moisture they need to thrive. According to Gareth Mitchell, gardening expert and founder of Tree2myDoor, roses do best when planted directly into borders, where they have access to more stable ground moisture and are better protected from drying out.
Gareth explained that planting your roses in borders, as opposed to containers, is key to ensuring they stay healthy over the warmer months.
“The main way to keep your roses alive over summer and at their best is by ensuring they don’t dry out,” he said.
Borders offer a more natural, moisture-retentive environment that allows the roses to establish a strong root system.
This ensures that your plants are more likely to flourish and produce beautiful blooms throughout the season.
In addition to proper placement, rose bushes require vigilant care to stay at their best. One issue to watch for is aphid infestations, which can quickly damage your plants.
Gareth warns that greenflies, in particular, are a serious threat during the warmer months, as a single female can lay hundreds of eggs, leading to an overwhelming infestation.
To prevent damage, he recommends regularly inspecting your roses and removing any pests you spot by wiping them away with kitchen roll and a spray of soapy water.
By addressing an aphid problem early, you can help keep your roses healthy and prevent long-term harm to the plant.
Lastly, maintaining the longevity of your rose bushes requires proper pruning and attention to where you purchase them.
Gareth advises gardeners to avoid buying roses that have already bloomed, as these are often force-grown under controlled conditions and may not thrive for years to come.
Pruning is also crucial for encouraging healthy growth. At the end of the season, it’s important to cut the bush back to two to three inches above the base of the soil, as this helps the plant focus its energy on developing a robust root system for the next growing season.
With the right care and positioning, your rose bushes will continue to bring beauty and life to your garden year after year.