Roses capture the imagination. Their delightful fragrance, diverse blooms, and numerous varieties make the rose a plant that truly fits in any garden. From small urban gardens to expansive green oases, there's always room for a rose. We'd love to guide you through the fragrant world of roses, teaching you everything about pruning, varieties, and planting.
The types of roses: from climber to shrub form
Roses come in many different shapes, colors, and sizes, but they can be roughly divided into several main groups, each with its own growth habit and specific characteristics.
Shrub roses or bush roses are perhaps the most versatile type. They come in compact forms, as well as large and bushy plants with long and abundant blooms. Their sturdy form makes them the ideal structure in the border.
Standard roses are essentially shrub roses grafted onto a straight stem, giving them an elegant, tree-like shape. They are often planted as accents in pots or borders.
Climbing roses are distinguished by their long, flexible canes that can be trained along trellises, walls, or pergolas. They usually bloom in clusters, creating a romantic effect.
Rambler roses resemble climbing roses but grow even more vigorously and are ideal for larger areas. They often bloom only once a year, but do so abundantly, with a wilder, more natural character.
Finally, there are the groundcover roses, low, creeping varieties that spread widely, making them perfect for covering large areas or difficult spots in the garden.
How to plant roses?
It's best to plant roses in the fall, from November to March. During this period, plant bare-root roses. The plants are not potted and are not planted in potting soil.
Roses prefer to be planted in the autumn. In the fall, the roots have ample time to settle in the still-warm soil, giving roses a head start in the spring. Most roses love a sunny spot, so choose a location with at least five to six hours of sunlight per day.
Make sure the planting hole is large enough when planting the rose. The roots need plenty of space and should not be crushed or crowded. Mix the soil with some compost to give the rose a good start when planting.
When planting bare-root roses, first place the rose in a bucket of water. This allows the roots to gently soak up water, preparing them for planting. Ensure that the graft union of the rose is just below the soil surface when planting. This point is sensitive to freezing, which can damage the rose. Fill the planting hole with a mixture of soil and compost, and press firmly. Finally, water well.
In the first year the rose blooms, it may not be very exuberant. Always give the rose some time. Once the rose is settled, it will bloom profusely.
Learn more through our videos
Did you know we also have a well-stocked YouTube channel? With over 450 videos, we have a large database of information. Be sure to check out YouTube and subscribe to stay updated with the latest videos.
In this video, Angelo shares his favorite bloomers of the summer months, and of course, the rose plays a role.
How are roses best pruned?
Regular pruning is very important in rose care. It keeps the plant in the right shape and ensures it will bloom more abundantly. A well-maintained plant is also healthier, reducing the chances of disease.
The best time to prune roses is in early spring, just before new growth begins. If you prune too early, you risk frost damage to the plant. Prune at the right time, and the rose will have enough time to recover and grow and bloom more vigorously. Is your rose well-rooted? Then feel free to remove the spent flowers at the end of the summer bloom.
When pruning, always check the plant for old and dead branches. Prune these away without hesitation, giving young new shoots the chance to grow further. Always cut at an angle above a bud. This prevents water from sitting on the pruning wound, reducing the risk of rot.
Then prune in the shape of the plant. Cut away inward-growing branches to improve air circulation within the plant. This reduces the chances for fungi and bacteria, keeping the rose healthier. Are there branches growing in the wrong direction? Feel free to prune them, but don't cut too deeply. Always cut above a bud, as new shoots will grow from there.
A few more quick rose tips
When pruning, ensure you have sharp and clean pruning shears. This allows for smooth cuts and neat wounds on the plant. Neat wounds are less susceptible to diseases and pests, leading to a healthier plant in the long run.
Visit a rose garden in spring and summer. You'll be able to see and smell different varieties. You're sure to find a new favorite.
Never prune roses during severe frost. Frost can cause freshly pruned branches to crack, giving diseases a better chance.
Invest in a sturdy pair of gloves. Roses often have strong thorns that can cause nasty injuries.
