Coming Up Roses

The other day, I purchased three rose plants to plant in my front yard’s garden bed. I have to admit that I bought them totally on a whim (because I loved the plants’ beautiful yellow blooms) and knew little about the plants or their care.

 It turns out I should have done some research before buying, since the variety I purchased (Cl. Smiley Face) is a climbing rose (rose bushes may have been more appropriate) that can grow as high as 12 feet. (And I have them planted in front of other bushes that are approximately 4 feet high, so I would want them lower than that.) The good news is that the roses are supposed to be fairly hardy and are resistant to mildew and rust, two problems that tend to plague roses.

So, I’ve done some research online and by downloading the title, “Roses for Dummies” (it seems there’s a “Dummies” book for almost everything) onto my Kindle. This is what I’ve learned so far about choosing and growing roses:

1. Consider hardiness zones: Before choosing a rose variety, see if it’s suited for your geographical area by checking the information provided on the plant’s tag against a plant zone hardiness map.

2. Choose a sunny location: Roses, which undoubtedly can give their owners a sunny disposition, also need a lot of sun. Plant your roses in a location that gets at least 8 hours of sunlight. My roses are planted in a sunny spot on the eastern side of my home, so the location should be good. Roses that are planted in shadier spots will produce fewer flowers.

 3. Water frequently: To thrive, roses need plenty of water. Be sure to water your roses early in the day so the leaves can dry out before evening. Also, a soaker hose would be a good investment. Be sure to provide your roses with 1 to 2 inches of water per week. But be sure that the planting bed in which your roses are planted have adequate drainage, since standing water is not good for your plants.

 4. Improve the soil: Feed your roses well, and they will show their gratitude with beautiful blooms. Add compost and fertilizer to the soil in which your roses are planted per your rose grower’s recommendations.

 5. Mulch: Mulch around your roses to help the soil retain its moisture and to control weeds.

 6. Watch for pests: Roses are prone to various types of diseases and pests, so check the leaves of your plants frequently for any sign of trouble and treat accordingly.

 7. Prune: Prune your roses when they are dormant in colder weather (and are not in a growing state) to remove diseased and dead canes and leaves.

 8. Protect in the winter: To help your roses prepare for winter, stop fertilizing them six weeks before the first frost, let spent flowers go to seed late in the growing season (instead of cutting them off), keep your roses well watered in the fall and mound the base of your rose plants with mulch and soil.