How To Plant Early-Season Roses

Roses like full-sun, usually the more the better. They also like good air circulation, so avoid overcrowding them or planting in a dingy corner. Roses grow equally well in the ground or in pots. When planting in the ground, generous amounts of Bu’s Blend Biodynamic Compost is an excellent addition. In containers, Bu’s Blend Biodynamic Potting Soil is a great premium mix. Roger’s Gardens Certified Organic Potting Soil is also a customer favorite.

Dig a hole or prepare a container large enough for each plant to grow a healthy, robust root system. Remove the rose from the pot. This can be done by tipping both the rose and the loose soil out of the plastic nursery pot. Early-season roses will not yet be rooted into this soil.

In the hole, position the roots of the rose below the final soil line, with the branches (canes) above the soil line. Once planted the rose should be at the same level that it was while in the nursery pot.

Backfill the hole with a blend of native soil mixed thoroughly with the soil from the pot. In containers, this soil can be used as is. Firm the soil thoroughly.

Keep your newly planted rose very well-watered for the first one to two months, never letting the soil dry. It is almost impossible to overwater an Early-Season rose at this time of year.

Add a high quality organic fertilizer during or immediately after planting. We suggest Down to Earth Organic Rose Fertilizer, following label directions. Do not use chemical or synthetic fertilizers, or systemic “3-in-1” types of fertilizers. Evenly distribute the fertilizer around the root system and gently blend it with the top inch of soil. Roses are heavy feeders. Apply Down to Earth Organic Rose Fertilizer monthly from now through early to mid Fall.