Gardeners urged to plant roses in November
Roses are a favourite in British gardens, adding colour, fragrance and a traditional feel to borders and beds. While many gardeners wait until spring to introduce new plants, autumn and winter are perfect times to get ahead, particularly when planting bare-root varieties.
TL;DR
- Autumn and winter are ideal planting times for roses, especially bare-root varieties.
- Planting during the dormant season allows roses to establish before spring.
- Bare-root roses are typically available from November to March.
- Choose sunny locations with free-draining soil and shelter from wind.
- Avoid planting in frozen or waterlogged ground, and in areas where roses previously grew to prevent replant disease.
- Improve soil with organic matter and dig holes twice the width of the roots.
- Ensure the graft union sits at soil level to prevent dieback.
- Regular watering, mulching, and pruning are essential for aftercare.