How to Plant a Bare Root Rosebush

A bare root rosebush is often sold much cheaper then a potted rosebush. It is essentially just the canes and roots of the bush. In order to make them grow and thrive, they need immediate and proper care. The following will help in your efforts in planting a bare root rosebush.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Large bucket
• Water
• Shovel
• Compost or peat moss
• Fertilizer

1. Fill a large bucket with lukewarm water. Place the rosebush's roots into the water to rehydrate them. Soak the roots for 12 to 24 hours.

2. Find an area that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day.

3. Dig a hole two times larger then the root bulb.

4. Water the hole.

5. Mix compost or peat moss and fertilizer in the removed dirt.

6. Place some of the mixed soil into the hole in a mound formation.

7. Cut damaged roots and canes from the rosebush.

8. Place the bare root rosebush into the hole, draping the roots over the mound. All of the roots should fit nicely, without being bent. If they are bending or do not fit the whole, dig a larger hole.

9. Water the hole again.

10. Fill the hole with 1/3 more of the mixed soil.

11. Water and repeat the process filling 1/3 of the dirt at a time.

Tips & Warnings

• It is best to plant in early spring.
• Bury bare root bushes deeper than normal.
• Pick a rosebush that has two to three strong canes and has good sized roots.
• Keep the roots wrapped in a wet paper towel after they are removed from the bucket of water. This will help them retain their moisture until planting.

Resources

• More on caring for bare root roses.