Important! Upon Arrival
Bare-root root Roses and Shrubs can be planted as soon as you can dig in your garden in early spring. You do not have to wait until frosts are over. These shrubs are hardy and can withstand cold temperatures. If you are unable to plant immediately, open the box to expose the stems but do not remove the wrapping around the roots, as this preserves moisture. Store the shrubs upright in a cool, humid, dimly lit location. Before planting, remove all packaging material, including the copper twist tie, then soak the entire plant, stems and roots, in a pail of water for several hours, but no more than 12 hours. At no time, should the roots ever be exposed to sun or wind, or be allowed to dry out. Trim off any broken roots or branches before planting. It is very important to prune the canes of bare root roses prior to planting.
Potted Shrubs & Vines:
Leafed out, growing, non-dormant plants are sometimes shipped from our greenhouses in pots. These plants should be hardened off before planted outside if it is very cold in your area. Either gradually acclimatize the plant to outside conditions or plant outside and cover with straw or an old blanket if a hard frost threatens. Water immediately and thoroughly upon arrival. Allow excess water to drain and store in a cool, dimly lit location if you cannot plant right away. Before planting, gently remove the plant from the pot. Holding the stem, work the plant and soil ball out of the pot. Carefully loosen the root ball until the roots can be spread out in octopus fashion. Shrubs with tight roots should have them loosened as well.
