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Site
Preparation
Single rows of roses require beds at least 3 feet wide; double
rows need 4 to 5 feet. For convenience, it is preferable to not
have more than two rows. Well prepared beds pay big returns
in rose enjoyment!
Dig a hole about 18 inches deep by 2 feet in diameter for
each bush. Incorporate a generous amount of organic material
(peat moss or garden compost) with the native soil and 1 cup
of dolomite lime. Mix thoroughly. If the soil is not well drained,
consider growing roses in raised beds--roses need plenty of water,
but the soil has to drain well. They don't like wet feet.
Timing and Planting
Plant bare root roses from November through March when the
soil is not frozen. Potted roses may be planted at almost any
time.
Select good quality rose bushes (preferably from a reputable
nursery or mail order, NOT the drugstore) which have not dried
out in storage or shipment. Store bare root roses in a cool place
if they are not to be planted immediately. Keep them moist. Soak
roots briefly before planting. Potted roses may be held indefinitely
before planting, provided usual watering and feeding continue.
Bare root roses should be pruned back slightly before planting,
cutting back to strong buds. Potted roses need to be pruned when
planted. Dig a hole at least 18 inches deep in a prepared bed,
mound up the soil in the middle, and arrange the roots over this
mound so that the bud union (where the rose is grafted to the
root) is level with the bed. Cover the roots with some soil,
firm the soil around the roots and water thoroughly. When the
soil has settled, finish filling the hole and mound soil over
the canes to conserve moisture. (Note: This is important
when planting in the early spring. Don't let the rose canes dry
out before the roots get a chance to grow and supply moisture
to the canes!) When new growth has started, remove the excess
soil over the bud union so that it is exposed near the level
of the bed.
Location and Watering
Roses grow best in a sunny location; six hours daily is considered
a minimum for lots of blooms. Try to select a location where
there will be sun for at least half the day, not too near large
trees or hedges. Morning sun with afternoon shade is preferable.
Avoid planting in excessively sandy or clayey soils. Roses do
best in relatively fine textured, but well drained, soils.
Roses in Olympia require at least one inch of water per week
during the growing months. Slow soaking is best. Avoid overhead
watering in the evening as it contributes to mildew and other
diseases.
Fertilization
Hybrid Teas, Grandifloras, Floribundas, and Climbers
Apply 1/2 cup of 10-20-20 per bush, three times per year.
First application in late March or early April; second application
in May; third application in late June or early July.
Miniatures
First application in early April using 1 tablespoon of 10-20-20
scattered around each plant and scratched in lightly. For the
second application in early June use a soluble 20-20-20 fertilizer
such as Rapid-Gro, mixed according to the directions on the package;
use 1 cup of this solution around the base of each plant. The
third application early in July is the same as the second.
Old Garden Roses
Most Old Garden Roses don't need much fertilizer. Once in
the early spring with a general all purpose 20-20-20 will hold
them for the year.
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