Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 08:14 pm
Autumn is a favorable time to plant roses. They are available in two main forms: in planting containers or as bare-root roses with short stems and exposed roots. These bare-root roses, as compared to container roses, offer the advantage of being significantly more cost-effective. Bare-root roses from well-known breeders can be found for as little as eight to ten euros. Those who order them online can even get them for less.
Watering Roses Before Planting In the autumn, when the selection of roses is at its peak, freshly dug-up roses become available for purchase. Before planting, it is essential to soak the rose in water for 12 to 24 hours. This can be achieved by filling a bucket with water and submerging the roots overnight.
Trimming Roots and Shoots Next, trim both the roots and shoots to about 20 centimeters. The planting hole should be large enough for the roots to fit straight down without any bending. The soil at the bottom of the planting hole should be gently loosened with a digging fork, allowing the roots to quickly reach deeper layers of soil.
Plant the Grafted Area Deep Enough When planting, it is crucial to ensure that the grafted area is buried deep enough. The grafted area refers to the thickened part at the lower portion of the plant where the ornamental rose, which is the upper part of the rose, is connected to the sturdy rootstock. This delicate juncture should be positioned at least five, but preferably eight to ten centimeters below the soil surface after planting.
Mounding for Protection To facilitate the successful establishment of the rose, mound soil around it until only the tips of the shoots are visible. This provides protection from frost, wind, and direct sunlight during the winter.
By adhering to these steps and giving proper care in the autumn, bare-root roses can be successfully planted in your garden. This provides a cost-effective alternative to have your garden in full bloom come spring.
Planting bare-root roses in autumn is a common and suitable practice for establishing healthy rose bushes. Bare-root roses are dormant plants that are sold with exposed roots, usually without soil. Autumn planting offers several advantages for these types of roses:
- Dormancy: In autumn, rose bushes are typically dormant, meaning they are not actively growing. This is an ideal time to transplant them as they can focus on establishing their root system without the demands of new growth or flowering.
- Selection: Nurseries often have a wide selection of bare-root roses available in the fall, providing you with a variety of choices for your garden.
How to plant a bare root rose by David Austin Roses
Here are the steps to successfully plant bare-root roses in the autumn:
1. Site Selection:
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Roses thrive in full sun, receiving at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
- Ensure good air circulation to prevent diseases and choose a spot with enough space between plants.
2. Prepare the Soil:
- Test your soil and amend it if necessary to ensure it’s well-draining and has the right pH (around 6.0).
- Work organic matter, like compost, into the soil to improve its structure and fertility.
3. Soak the Roots:
- Before planting, immerse the bare roots in a bucket of water for several hours or overnight. This hydrates the roots and prepares them for planting.
4. Prune the Canes:
- Trim back any damaged or overly long canes to about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm). Make clean, diagonal cuts.
5. Dig the Planting Hole:
- Dig a hole that is wide enough to accommodate the spread-out roots without bending. The depth should allow the graft union (the swollen area where the canes meet the roots) to sit at or slightly below the soil level.
6. Place the Rose in the Hole:
- Position the rose in the center of the hole, ensuring that the roots are spread out evenly. Fill in the hole with soil while gently pressing it down to remove air pockets.
7. Water Thoroughly:
- Water the rose thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
8. Mulch:
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the rose to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Make sure the mulch does not touch the canes directly.
9. Prune and Feed:
- In late winter or early spring, prune the roses to shape and remove any dead canes. You can also apply a balanced rose fertilizer.
10. Care and Maintenance: – Regularly monitor your roses for signs of pests and diseases. Apply appropriate treatments as needed. Water consistently, especially during dry periods.
Autumn planting of bare-root roses sets the stage for healthy growth and beautiful blooms in the following spring and summer. Proper care and maintenance will help your roses thrive and enhance the beauty of your garden.