How to Grow a Rose Garden

Contrary to what you may have heard, growing florist-quality roses is not a difficult task.  Rose gardens can be elaborate or simple, adding elegance to any landscape, enhancing the "curb appeal" of your home instantly.  Add some accent foliage and a bountiful supply of fresh arrangements are at your fingertips to give as gifts or for gracing your home.

A rose garden can be as simple as a potted miniature on your lanai or an elaborate formal garden.

1. Select an area that receives a minimum five hours of full sun.  This is important as roses are susceptible to fungal infestations if water is allowed to remain on the leaves and stems for an extended period of time.  Six to eight hours is best.  Afternoon sun is preferable to morning sun.


2. Purchase an inexpensive soil test kit.  Roses prefer a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5.  Improper pH will result in improper nutrient absorption causing yellowing of leaves.  If your soil is acid (low pH), add lime to adjust.  For alkaline soil (high pH), add sulfur.  Both soil additives are readily available at garden centers and home improvement stores.


3. Measure the planting area.  Roses should be spaced a minimum of two feet apart.  Depending on the type of rose selected, a wider spacing pattern may be preferred.  Spacing should allow rose bushes to grow independently, allowing for canes to grow freely without encroaching on other bushes.  Determine how many bushes to plant after considering what type you plan to grow.


4. Determine your planting zone. This information is readily available by Internet search or by contacting a local plant nursery.  Many reputable online suppliers have unusual and patented rose variety.  Some of these are quite expensive.  If your budget is limited, local stores are a valuable resource, stocking inexpensive varieties. 


5. Select the main varieties to plant.  Rambling roses grow into a tangle of long canes with small flowers.  Climbers have tall canes that are suitable for training on upright supports.  Miniature roses are excellent for small gardens and patio arrangements.  Grandiflora roses are known for classic blooms with long stems.  Floribunda varieties have more "ruffled" blossoms that are abundant.  Gardening experts suggest planting rose varieties in multiples of three for a beautiful display.  Many suppliers offer discounts for roses purchased in threes.


6. Research reputable suppliers.  Many areas have local rose clubs that can provide information on the best local and online suppliers.


7. Prepare the garden area by removing vegetation.  Turn the soil well, adding lime or sulfur to adjust pH, if necessary.  Planting your rose bushes depends on how they were purchased.  If your rose bush is bare rooted, dig a hole of sufficient size to place roots in a fan configuration.  In the bottom of the hole, place approximately 1/8 bag of organic peat. Cover the peat with garden soil forming a mound.  Place the bare root rose bush atop the mound, arranging the roots around the mound.  Cover with soil and tamp in place.  For planting a container rose, dig a hole larger than the container. 


8. Place approximately 1/8 bag of organic peat in the bottom.  Remove the rose from the container by gently loosening the soil from the sides of the container.  Place in the hole and cover with soil, lightly tamping into place. 


9. Soak the soil.  Water twice daily for at least two weeks before fertilizing.  Always avoid watering the foliage to avoid plant disease. Add mulch around roses and enjoy your garden.