Information for Gardeners
Thirteen common reasons why roses fail to survive after planting
- Stems Dehydrating: Hot weather at planting time can dry out stems before they get a chance to break buds. Please see 'Sweating Roses after Planting'.
- Bud Union Covered when Spring is Cool: If daytime temperatures are still consistently below 10-15°C (50-59°F), leave the bud union exposed. Please see 'Planting'.
- Loose Planting: Tug on a stem after you plant. If the rose shifts, tread carefully around the bush to eliminate air pockets. Water in well.
- Storage: Improper, prolonged storage before planting.
- Waterlogged Soil: Good soil drainage is essential. Please see Soil Drainage.
- Severe drought: Usually only severe during the first season. Water regularly and deeply.
- Use of fresh manure or chemical fertilizer at planting time: Use only aged manure, peat moss, compost, worm castings, or bone meal at planting time. Do not add additional fertilizer to newly planted roses until new stems are 6 inches long or flower buds appear. Please see 'Fertilizing' & 'The Soil'.
- Dry Roots at Planting Time: Soak roots for several hours before planting. Never let them dry out!
- Too much lime in the soil: Follow directions for applying lime.
- Planting Under Trees: Combined effects of root dryness and dense shade.
- Failing to Prune before Planting: Please see 'Pre-Plant Pruning'.
- Weed Competition: Maintain a bare, or preferably mulched, area around roses for the first 2-3 years. Please see 'Weeding'.
- Mechanical Damage: Grass cutters, lawn mowers, bikes, dogs, etc. can cause severe damage to new plants. Clearly mark them or protect them with fencing if necessary.
