Growing roses – tips for success

Many people want to decorate their garden as if a florist had their way. We want a green background with pops of colour throughout, especially during the warm, hot spring and summer months. One of the most popular cut and garden flowers is the rose. Roses come in various shapes, colours and sizes so you can easily find something that works for your personal needs. The benefit of all this is that you can send flowers to a friend in the blink of an eye and you can use withered roses as potpourri or you can create your own bouquets for your home. The possibilities with roses are nearly endless! If you are planning on growing roses in your garden, here are some essential tips.

Proper planning

Just like planting any other plant or flower in your garden, planning is essential when growing roses. You must first make sure that your garden offers the perfect conditions for roses. Roses need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. You also need to make sure the soil is suitable. If you remove an old rose bush and plant a new one in its place, you should also do yourself a favour and replace the soil in which it will be planted. Roses prefer fresh soil to soil where other roses have lived their lives. Think of it like cleaning.

Time your planting

Different roses prefer different planting times. For example, bare root roses can be planted in late winter, while those grown in containers at your local nursery should be planted in the early weeks of spring. You should do your research online about the specific type of rose you are planting, and you can also confirm your findings with a specialist at your nursery. While you’re at it, check out some planting guidelines that will ensure success when growing roses.. Bare root roses should be soaked in water before planting and potted roses can be watered well and allowed to sit until ready to plant.

Maintain the soil

Check the pH level of your soil when growing roses and be sure to plant your roses in a well-drained area. You will need to water your roses regularly, but you don’t want them swimming in water. Fertilize the area well in advance so the soil is perfect when you plant your roses. As with any plant in your garden, you should remove faded flowers and dead or dying plant material. Watch out for any disease or harmful insects. You can consult a professional about what you can use to protect your roses from such threats. In the interest of an important ecological balance, ask about possible natural solutions to these problems. Check to see if there are any plants or flowers that can be planted near your roses to repel insects. If you do and you have particularly fragrant roses, you can even use them to make your own rose petal jam!

Growing roses does require a fair amount of research and work. The results, however, are most certainly worthwhile. Not only will these blooms brighten your garden, but you can also cut these stems to create your very own bouquets to enjoy in various areas of your home.