A Comprehensive Guide to Planting Bare-Root Roses

Planting bare-root roses offers gardeners a unique opportunity to establish healthy plants with strong root systems. Jason from Fraser Valley Rose Farm recently shared his insights on planting bare-root roses, answering common questions and addressing varied recommendations for different climates. This guide summarizes his advice, integrates practical strategies for a range of conditions, and emphasizes approaches for long-term success.

What Are Bare-Root Roses?

Bare-root roses are dormant plants shipped without soil, with their roots exposed. They are typically grown in fields, dug up, cleaned, and stored for transport. While often sold in their bare-root state, some are potted before sale but remain fundamentally bare-root roses at their core.

Bare-root roses are commonly grafted, where a vigorous rootstock supports a desirable scion (top variety). The graft union, where the two parts meet, plays a key role in determining planting depth and long-term success.

Planting Depth: Where Should the Crown Go?

Planting depth is one of the most debated aspects of rose planting. Jason recommends planting the crown or graft union around soil level or slightly lower, depending on local climate and conditions. For gardeners in colder climates, planting the crown 1–2 inches below soil level and mounding soil over it for winter protection can safeguard against extreme cold.

Why Avoid Planting Too Deep?

1. Preserving Grafted Benefits: The rootstock provides vigor, disease resistance, and other qualities. Planting too deep can encourage the scion to develop its own roots (adventitious roots), potentially compromising the intended benefits of the graft.
2. Rot Prevention: A deeply buried crown remains in contact with moist soil, increasing the risk of rot or fungal infections.
3. Sucker Identification: Planting the crown at or near soil level makes it easier to spot and remove rootstock suckers, which can outcompete the scion.

However, in hot climates, deeper planting (1–2 inches below soil level) can help roses cope with extreme heat by protecting roots and reducing evaporation. Regardless of climate, hilling soil or mulch around the crown during establishment can provide added protection.

Soil Amendments: What (If Anything) Should You Add?

Jason emphasizes planting in native soil for long-term success. Avoid heavily amending the planting hole, as this can create barriers to root growth and discourage the plant from anchoring firmly into the surrounding soil. Over time, you can improve the broader soil environment by top-dressing with organic matter.

What About Fertilizer? Instead of adding fertilizer directly to the planting hole, Jason recommends a balanced approach during the establishment phase:

• Use a 3-1-2 or 3-1-3 fertilizer with micronutrients, which supports both rooting and growth.
• Consider organic options like alfalfa pellets, aged manure, or compost, applied modestly to the soil surface.

This slow-release feeding method nourishes the plant without overwhelming its young roots or altering the soil structure.

Preparing Bare-Root Roses: Soaking and Trimming

Bare-root roses are typically shipped in a dormant state. While some sources recommend soaking all bare-root roses before planting, Jason advises soaking only if the roots appear dry or dehydrated. A brief soak of 4–6 hours can help rehydrate the plant without over-saturating it.

Pruning is generally unnecessary during planting unless you notice broken or unhealthy canes. In those cases, trim back the affected parts to promote healthy growth.

Timing: When Should You Plant Bare-Root Roses?

Timing depends on your local climate and season:

• Spring Planting: Wait until after the last hard frost to prevent soil disturbance or root damage.
• Fall Planting: Plant 4–6 weeks before the first hard frost, allowing roots time to establish.

Bare-root roses are usually sold or shipped when it’s appropriate to plant in your region, so availability often aligns with planting times.

Location: Where Should You Plant Roses?

Choosing the right location is critical for a rose’s long-term health. Jason highlights these considerations:

1. Soil Quality:
   • Well-drained soil is essential. Roses struggle in heavy clay or poorly draining areas.
   • If your soil is rocky, clay-heavy, or overly sandy, consider alternatives like raised beds or container gardening to provide better control over drainage and soil composition.
2. Sun Exposure:
   • Aim for at least six hours of full sun per day.
   • In hot climates, a location with high dappled shade or afternoon shade can protect roses from excessive heat and stress.

Addressing Common Concerns

Jason also addressed several common worries about bare-root planting:

1. Wind Rock: Loose planting or insufficient soil firmness can cause the rose to pivot in the wind, disrupting root establishment. Firmly pack native soil around the roots without compacting it excessively. This ensures stability while allowing roots to grow outward.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: For truly poor soils, digging a large planting hole filled with amendments is a short-term fix at best. Instead, improve the surrounding soil broadly or use raised beds or containers to create a more suitable environment.

Conclusion: Planting Bare-Root Roses for Long-Term Success

Planting bare-root roses can seem complex, but with Jason’s straightforward advice, it’s manageable for gardeners of all experience levels. By planting the crown around soil level, using native soil, and focusing on gradual soil improvement, you’ll establish roses that thrive for years to come.