Choosing a Variety
Your choice of rose is very personal. Make
sure that the dimensions of the rose suit its position, although please bear in mind that the dimensions given are approximations.
The actual sizes that each rose will reach will vary, depending on factors such as the soil type, fertility and moisture levels,
the amount of sunlight and the way you prune your roses.
Planting Position
Select a site
with at least a few hours of sun each day where the roots of the rose will not be in competition with the roots of other plants,
especially trees and hedges. The exception to this rule are the ramblers which grow well near to trees.
Planting
Distances
If you have the space English Roses, Old Roses and other Shrub Roses look superb planted in groups
of three of one variety. They will then grow together to form one dense shrub, which will provide a more continuous display
and make a more definite statement in the border. We suggest planting approximately 18” (45cm) apart within the group.
Adjacent plants of neighbouring varieties should be planted approximately 2’ 6” to 3’ (75-100cm) away. For
hedges for maximum effect, plant fairly close together 18” (45cm).
Soil Type
Roses
will grow in a wide range of soils, but whatever type they do appreciate good soil preparation. The addition of a generous
quantity of well rotted manure or garden compost before planting will help to ensure strong growth.
Planting
When
planted the base of the stems should be about 3" (7.5cm) below ground level. We recommend the use of “Start”
root grow when planting to help give them the best of starts possible. It is also available in larger containers
- please contact us for details.
Feeding
All roses, especially the repeat flowering varieties,
greatly appreciate the application of fertilizer. We use David Austin Rose Food here at the nursery and apply it to all the
roses at the start of the growing season (March or April in the UK) and again in June to the repeat-flowering varieties. Many
other fertilizers are suitable. Please follow the recommendations on the packet for the rate and frequency of application.
Excessive nitrogen can make roses more susceptible to both pests and diseases.
Mulching and Watering
Roses particularly appreciate a moist and cool root run which is easily attainable by generous mulching in spring and
occasional deep waterings. This is particularly important in climates with hot, dry summers where the waterings should be
frequent enough to keep the soil moist at all times.
Healthy roses
The best way to keep
your plants free from pests and diseases is to grow them as well as possible, however, an occasional spray can be very beneficial.
The most effective sprays are those at the start of the season before symptoms develop, but beware of frosts the night after
spraying – they will scorch the leaves badly. Roseclear 3 is the best all-round spray for diseases and insects. If rust
alone is the problem use Systhane.
