How Deep Do You Plant Roses?

Roses remain a garden favorite.

Roses were first grown as garden plants about 5,000 years ago, probably in China. Today, roses for planting may be bought as bare-root plants or in containers with roots in soil.

Soil Preparation

Just as important as the planting hole's size is soil preparation. Enrich soil first with organic matter, such as peat or compost. Read instructions that come with bare-root roses. If you are planting a bare-root rose, you must build a soil mound to support the plant.

Digging the Hole

Dig a hole that is deep and wide enough to accommodate the root system, providing plenty of room for growth. The Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service advises digging holes "at least 12 inches deep and 18 inches in diameter to provide plenty of space for root growth."

Grafted Roses

If your rose is grafted, a general rule is to plant so the grafted area is slightly above the soil line and not exposing the top of the roots, called the root crown. This prevents bacterial and insect infection.

The University of Illinois Extension recommends planting so the graft union is 1 to 2 inches below the soil line to prevent winter kill if you live in a climate with harsh winters.

References

• University of Illinois Extension: The History of Roses
• University of Illinois Extension: Springtime Is Rose Time
• Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service: Roses

Resources

• American Rose Society