How to plant a potted shrub rose

By following these simple steps, you will ensure your potted shrub rose gets off to the best possible start.

When to plant

Potted roses can be planted all year round. The only time we recommend that you don't plant is when the ground is frozen, waterlogged or in drought conditions.

You will need

Spade

Fork

Large bucket of water

Watering can

Well rotted manure

David Austin’s Mycorrhizal Fungi

Where to plant

Make sure the rose has some sun, ideally at least 4 hours of sunlight a day.
Generally, the more sun the better. However in the hottest areas, shade from the afternoon sun can be beneficial.
Ensure the rose has enough space, so that the roots do not suffer from intense competition from neighbouring plants, including treesand hedges.

Step by step guide

Step 1
Rehydrate your rose

Before removing your rose from its pot, water it generously, immediately prior to planting.
Step 2
Prepare the soil

Dig over the soil thoroughly, using the garden fork and remove any weeds or large stones. This will ensure that the new roots can venture freely into their new environment. Roses will grow in all soil types.
Step 3
Dig the hole and break up the soil

Dig a hole big enough for the rose's roots, approximately 16" wide by 16" deep (40x40cm), using a spade. Using a fork, break up the soil at the base of the hole. This will allow the roots to go deeper into the soil.
STEP 4
Add well rotted manure

Mix a small spadeful of Carr’s Special Soil Improver or well-rotted farmyard manure with the soil in the bottom of the hole. This will add vital nutrients to the soil helping the rose to establish more effectively. Also, mix two spadefuls of soil improver with the soil removed from the hole.
step 5
Apply David Austin's Mycorrhizal Fungi

Sprinkle the recommended amount of Mycorrhizal Fungi around the sides and the bottom of the planting hole. This will aid root development and will lead to a healthier rose.
STEP 6
Position the rose in the hole

Carefully remove the rose from its pot and position in the centre of the hole. Place a bamboo cane horizontally across the top of the hole to judge if the planting depth is correct. The soil mass around the roots of the rose should be just below the bamboo cane.
STEP 7
Backfill, firm-in and water well

Backfill around the roots of the rose, using the soil that was dug to make the hole. Then, lightly firm the soil around the rose with your foot. Water well.

Need help deciding which rose is right for you?

Try our rose finder

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