How to Relocate Rose Bushes

Rose bushes are a lovely addition to any garden. While these plants are beautiful when they flourish, rose bushes can also be incredibly frail. Careful planning should be done before you move a rose bush.

Things You'll Need

• A shovel
• Garden gloves
• A pot or plastic bag

Instructions

1. Dig the hole in your desired end destination. Depending on the size of the bush, you will most likely want an 8- to 12-inch hole. Remember when digging the hole that you can always fill it if it is a bit too deep. Keep the dirt you dig up nearby; it will be helpful when you plant the bush.

2. Gather a container and gloves. Depending on the size of your rose bush, you will need either a plastic bag or a pot to move it. For a smaller bush, just a bag will do. If your rose bush is larger, a large pot will work well. Have gloves to wear when you need to handle the rose bush.

3. Dig out the bush from its current location. Start four to eight inches from the center of the bush and dig around in a circle. Depending on the size of the rose bush, you may want to dig closer or farther out. Use discretion and dig slowly to avoid cutting a root. Once you have dug around the majority of the bush, grab the base of the bush and pull gently. If the bush comes up easily, continue pulling it out. If the bush does not budge, you have some more digging to do.

4. Place the rose in the bag or pot to move it. If you move the bush without putting it in a container first, the roots will dangle and possibly break. Soil will also fall from the rose's roots and make a messy trail wherever you go. Make sure you have gloves on when you put the bush into the bag or pot. The gloves will help protect your hands from thorns.

5. Plant the bush in its new location. Carefully remove it from its container and place it into the hole. Cover all the roots with dirt. Secure the soil firmly around the base of the rose to eliminate any air pockets. You can fertilize the rose to help it adapt better.

6. Water the rose. Transporting the rose can take a toll on the plant, so generously water the rose to avoid a wilting bush.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan out the route you will take when moving the bush.

• Try to avoid relocating the bush on a hot, sunny day.

References

• Dig a hole large enough for the root mass and loosen the bottom of the hole. Depending on your soil type, you may want to spade some compost into the hole along with a sprinkle of bone meal. Bone meal is a slow acting source of Phosphorus and promotes healthy root growth.