Roses make a lovely addition to any garden, and add to your home’s natural aesthetic beauty. These delicate flowers come in an array of colors, from deep reds and crimson, to soft pinks, vibrant yellows and pure whites. These beautiful flowers will sprout up in your yard year after year, gracing it with their beauty. Enjoying a rose bush in your garden does not have to be difficult. By simply following a few steps and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying these blooming beauties in your home’s garden.
Most people purchase their rose bushes during winter, while they are dormant. They may be stored in a cool, dry place such as a basement or garage until you are ready to plant. It is important not to attempt to plant them before the weather and soil is ripe for planting. Spring is the best time to start the process of planting your rose bushes. The ground has thawed after a harsh winter and the soil is at its healthiest for cultivating your rose bush. Generally, the rose bushes should be planted in March or April for the best results.
You will need the following materials to start your project:
- Bushes
- Sand
- Compost
- Peat Moss
- Shovel
- Water
You will need to plan to plant your rose bushes in an area of your garden that will receive a minimum of six hours of sunlight daily. Avoid planting them in shady areas or around large trees. Check the pH of your soil, as rose bushes need a more acidic soil in which to grow. Keep your soil at a pH level of between 5.8 and 6.3. There are tools at your local gardening store that will help you determine soil acidity.
Dig a hole large enough for the bush’s roots, leaving ample space for them to spread as they grow. Make sure the soil is moist and free of rocks and other debris. Add peat moss and compost to your soil to enrich the nutrients that will feed your bushes.
Once you have placed the plant in the hole, examine the roots to make sure none are dead or broken. Trim any that are damaged before covering with soil.
Build a dome in your soil where you plan to plant your bush. Place the roots over this dome, leaving enough room for the roots to spread and grow. Next, fill in your hole with healthy, rich soil. After filling your hole, water generously to allow for maximum saturation. Add additional soil to the bushes, taking care to properly water at each step.
If you are planting multiple bushes, make sure to give them ample space to grow and spread. You will need to leave between two and ten feet between bushes to allow for maximum circulation of air and to prevent crowding.
The first days after planting your new rose bushes are the most crucial to their long-term survival. Make a reservoir of dirt around the base of them, and keep them saturated with water for the first week. After the first week, water them every three days–less if it is a rainy week. Follow up with regular maintenance of your bushes, including adding specialty rose fertilizer to your soil when needed.
Planting and caring for your rose bushes doesn’t have to be a difficult or arduous task. Many people enjoy the process of watching their gardens come to life with vibrant roses. Roses can add to your home’s natural beauty, and give it a fresh new look. If you follow a few simple steps and give them the care they need, you can enjoy your rose bushes year after year.
