Growing Roses: A Beginners Guide

Let's look at some basic preliminary steps to take in growing roses for beginners. They are not complicated plants and will add beauty to any existing garden. A good education is all that is needed to ensure your success.

The first step is to plan the garden before making any purchases. What location will be best suited for roses? Is one color preferred over others? Look at the current garden layout when making notes. Are there fences or lattices for a climbing plant? And, most importantly, does the desired location get enough sun?

Continue by thinking about the many variations of roses available.  Height, color, scent, and the type of flower you want will factor into your planning.

For big showy flowers consider the grandiflora rose. It produces large clusters of flowers and has the added bonus of being resistant to most diseases. If the roses are for a cutting garden, the tea rose would be a good choice with its single flower to a stem.

Old fashioned rambling plants can be allowed to grow freely or tied to a more formal structure. The rambling variety puts out clusters of flowers once a year; the climbing rose has one single bloom. 

Whether choosing one type of rose or a variety of species, you'll want to think about when the flowers will appear. If constant blooms are desired consider the shrub rose. It is hardy, requires little pruning, and has great value as a landscaping plant. 

Traditionally we think of roses in a bed, but they can be grown in pots to accommodate small gardens or apartment living. Miniature roses reach a height of roughly 2 feet and work well as a container plant. Just make sure the location will have the necessary amount of sunlight.

With all these questions answered, you have an idea of what to buy. Rose plants can be purchased at local garden shops, large chain stores, or on the internet. If you want advice about the local climate and soil, your local garden supply store will be able to provide good advice. There is some advantage to having an expert nearby for any questions that might pop up during the summer.

Take a look at the plant before purchasing. Look at the tag to see what the color is and confirm the variety. Check out the condition of the plant and its foliage. You want good green leaves without spots or signs of mildew. Stay away from brown or curled, wilted leaves. They have not been properly watered.

Now it's time to get the ground ready in your garden. Dig a nice large hole; it should be larger than the plant. First put an organic fertilizer or manure in the bottom of the hole and mix with soil. Then place the plant in the hole and cover with soil. The roses should be planted approximately 2-3 feet apart. After planting, water generously at the base of the plant and cover with light mulch.

Water frequently for the first few weeks as your new plants set down their roots. After the plant is established, water less frequently. For container plants, check the moisture content regularly.  

That's it! the garden has been carefully planned and roses planted. Take care of your new plants through the summer and you'll be rewarded with a colorful garden. Follow recommendations for feeding and watering and deadhead roses as necessary for a productive flowering.