It is time to starting thinking about those beautiful displays for next year
Days growing shorter and the threat of cold winter weather creeping ever closer are both sure-fire signs that autumn is upon us – and so is bare root season!
Bare root is a term used to describe plants supplied with the roots exposed, rather than potted alternatives than come in a container with soil.
Roses are one of the most popular plants to purchase as a bare root, as they arrive without soil, having been hard pruned, and often without foliage.
We lift our roses from the fields in autumn, as they enter a naturally dormant state, meaning very little care is needed when they first arrive with you.
Here is what you need to know about when to plant a bare root rose, and tips on how to best care for it to achieve a remarkable display down the line.
When Is The Best Time to Plant a Bare Root Rose?
It is best to plant a bare root rose in late autumn, or from the very end of winter into early spring. You can plant your rose in the ground during peak winter, so long as the ground isn’t frozen.
If conditions are cold and the ground is frozen when you go to plant, do not fret as the bare root can be kept in a container with part-moist compost until it warms up.
Planting Tips – Know Before You Grow!
There are many considerations you should think about before planting your bare root rose to ensure the final rose is as beautiful as it can be!
One of the most important aspects is where you are going to plant your rose. For best results, choose an area of the garden that receives a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day.
The soil should be well-drained and particularly rich in organic matter – use a soil improver or conditioner. Avoid any areas of the garden which regularly get waterlogged or are too shaded.
If you decide to use your rose as a potted plant, make sure the container is of a large size, to allow the full root system to grow out.
First Steps When Your Bare Root Arrives
When you receive your bare root in the post, start off by soaking it in a bucket of water for several hours, or even overnight, to rehydrate the roots and get it ready for planting in place.
Now your bare root is primed and ready for planting, dig your hole roughly 30-45cm deep, and 60cm wide. Loosen the soil at the base of the hole to help the root to penetrate.
Gently place your root into the hole, with the swollen area where the rose is grafted onto the rootstock, also known as the bud union, sitting just above ground level. Spread the roots carefully and backfill the hole with excess soil, firming around the roots.
Thoroughly water the fresh plant to help the soil settle, then continue to regularly water to keep the soil moist – but not waterlogged. Roughly an inch of water should be provided each week, depending on the weather conditions.
You can add a layer of organic mulch to the base of the rose to help the plant retain moisture as it grows, while also suppressing weeds and regulating the soil temperature. Make sure to leave a few inches of space free from mulch around the root to prevent rotting.
Aftercare Tips
Although your rose is now planted, the care does not end there, as it is important to regularly monitor your rose for signs of pests, disease, and nutrient deficiencies.
Do not fertilise during the first couple of weeks. Use a slow releasing rose fertiliser and follow packet instructions.
Be patient with the plant, as the roots may take time to establish themselves, just be sure to continue watering, maintain your weed control routine, and provide ongoing care where needed.
When it comes to pruning your established, beautiful rose plant, cut back the canes to roughly a third of their original height, while trimming any crossed or broken branches.
Bare Root Roses You Could Grow
Do you feel ready to plant, grow, and enjoy the wonders of a rose, right from the bare root? Well, we have a handful of excellent varieties that are sure to make an impact in your garden.
A perfect rose variety for anyone looking for something a little bit obscure and unique. ‘Abracadabra’ boasts a show of large, double blooms with luxurious velvet-red petals streaked with shades of yellow.
The flowers boast a light perfume during the summer months when they will repeatedly bloom. Known as a vigorous and long-flowering shrub rose, ‘Abracadabra’ has a good resistance to disease and very few thorns.
Another very impressive rose, the historic ‘Platinum Jubilee’ was released as part of the celebrations to mark 70 years since Queen Elizabeth’s ascended the British throne.
This rose certainly lives up to its regal name, as another double blooming shrub, with large, rich pink petals that ‘pop’ as part of any display, set against deep green foliage. Once your bare root has fully grown and produced flowers, a powerfully sweet scent will be released, lingering on and enhancing that delightful summer breeze.
Roses rarely boast such a classic, and almost nostalgic, appearance as the blooms of this ‘Old English’ shrub rose.
If you are attempting to produce a sophisticated cottage garden feel, then this bare root certainly takes some beating.
Intricate red petals flow around one-another to form remarkable patterns, as well as a good fragrance, when in bloom for around five months of the year, from June to October.
Have you grown any roses from bare root? Share your beautiful pictures with us here!
