Roses grown in containers require annual repotting to keep them healthy and obtain optimal blooms. Rootbound plants become stunted and produce limited foliage and flowers. If a larger container is not an option, prune the rose severely: remove about a third of its canes and selected roots. This will shock the plant to produce new roots and shoots. Follow these easy steps when repotting your favorite roses: Read the rest of this entry »

Roses planted in containers require somewhat more care than do in-soil roses. Containers are subject to overheating, dehydration, loss of water-soluble nutrients, and other conditions. Help them thrive by watering them whenever the soil becomes dry, fertilizing every 2-3 weeks, and shielding them from direct sunlight when temperatures climb. Read the rest of this entry »

Regular, deep waterings are best for most roses. Always follow them with several dry days to allow the soil to dry. For container plantings, more frequent irrigation is a must, especially in hot weather. Read the rest of this entry »

With beds and containers prepared, the time has come to choose healthy, vigorous, and disease-free roses from the wide selection that is offered at your garden retailer. Choosing healthy roses requires a careful examination of each plant.

In spring, roses are available both as bare-root plants and as established shrubs in nursery containers; later in the year, only containers may be available. Both grow equally well and are genetically identical. Bare-root roses are somewhat more economical, require more time to become established than container plants, and are available directly from growers as well as through retailers. Read the rest of this entry »