Watering
Roses require a lot of water. Reduce the need for water by mulching and making the ‘catch-basin’. Once roses are established, you will probably only water during very dry spells. For the first year, a good rule of thumb is about one gallon per foot per week. Roses that are dry heading into the winter will not fair out very well. Give a good soaking about 2-4 weeks before the ground will freeze. It is better to give infrequent, deep watering than frequent, light watering. Avoid getting water on the leaves, dry leaves prevent the spread of viral and fungal disease. Water early in the morning to allow the leaves to dry off before evening.
Most shrubs benefit from receiving at least one inch of water per week during the first season. Once established, most shrubs are quite drought tolerant, but of course are more productive and healthier if watered during dry spells.
