Can You Grow Roses in a Container?

Some roses thrive in pots.

Growing roses in containers such as flower pots or old wine or whiskey barrels adds charm to any landscaped yard or apartment patio. Containers can be moved to different locations in your home landscape as long as the roses receive six to eight hours of full sun a day, preferably in the morning. Growing roses in containers presents a number of challenges.

Select a Container

Choose a container that is at least 14 inches deep and 18 inches in diameter, which will allow the roots room to grow and establish. The container needs to have drainage holes. Place the container in a sunny area.

Prepare the Container

Fill the container with 1 part planting medium for container plants and 1 part organic matter, such as compost. Mix together thoroughly. Plant the rose plant in the container at the same depth it was in the nursery flowerpot. Make sure all of the roots are covered. Water until water drains from the bottom.

Water

Plants in containers need to be watered frequently because their soil becomes dry more often, especially during summer. Check the soil regularly to see if it is dry by placing your finger into the soil a few inches down. Water with a soaker hose directly into the soil until the water runs from the bottom. Spread a 1-inch layer of organic mulch such as shredded bark to retain soil moisture.

Fertilize

Unlike roses grown in the ground, roses in containers need to be fed once a week. Feed with a water-soluble food formulated for roses. Apply one-quarter of the suggested dosage on the fertilizer's label. Sprinkle around the soil and water thoroughly.

Winter Protection

Before the first frost of the winter, take the rose bush inside. Place it in an unheated area of your home such as a garage or basement so it will remain dormant. Water the soil to keep it moist during the winter and cover it with plastic. Place back outside in the early spring after the last frost.

References

• Texas A&M University Extension: Rose Gardening in Containers
• Fine Gardening; Over-Wintering Roses in Containers; Paul Zimmerman; October 2011
• Purdue University Extension; Roses; B. Rosie Lerner; February 2003