Types of Roses

Floribunda

• Large clusters of small, sometimes fragrant blooms in single stems
• Repeat bloomers that provide an array of color all season
• Grows up to 4 ft. tall

Grandiflora

• Large, showy flowers develop in clusters on long, sturdy stems
• Repeat bloomers that provide an array of color all season
• Grows 3-4 ft. tall

Climbing Roses

• Large, graceful flowers appear on long canes.
• Repeat blooms, typically once in late spring and once in mid to late summer.
• Frequently trained to grow on trellis, fence, wall or over arches.

Shrub Roses

• Among the easiest to grow; great where low maintenance is desired
• Repeat bloomers that provide an array of color all season
• Not fussy about pruning, can be sheared back as needed
• Hardy, disease resistant and drought tolerant once established

Tree Roses

• Also known as standards
• They are a novelty, created by using grafting and pruning techniques
• Can be grown in the ground or in a container
• Requirements and characteristics depend on the type of rose.

Planting Roses

Ready-to-plant, bare root roses sold in carboard boxes or plastic bags can be planted as soon as they are available beginning in March. Roses grown in containers can be planted right away in the spring, summer or fall.

Where to Plant

Use roses anywhere there is a sunny spot for fabulous, season long color. Perfect for flower beds, with shrubs in the landscape or in containers on decks, patios and entryways.

• Roses grow best in an open, sunny location with rich, well-drained soil.
• The pH of the soil should be near neutral (6.5-7.0); we can test your soil for free to determine if lime is needed.
• Provide plenty of space between individual rose plants and structures to ensure good air circulation and sunlight exposure.

Caring for Roses

1. Fertilize with a complete fertilizer such as Espoma Rose-tone® beginning in March, making the last application by mid-September.

2. Water newly planted roses frequently and deeply the first few weeks; after that, normal rainfall is usually sufficient. During hot, dry summer weather or drought, water deeply each week. Avoid wetting flowers and foliage with overhead watering as much as possible to minimize disease and insect issues. Use a soaker hose or hand water at the base of the plant.

3. Pest Control – The most common disease and insect problems can often easily be prevented and controlled. Please visit the Garden Information Desk for identification and advice; samples should be brought in sealed plastic bags.

4. Pruning – Can be done several times a season as needed.

1. 1. 1. Make clean cuts at a slight angle just ¼” above an outward facing bud or where a leaf is or was attached (node).
      2. Remove dead branches.
      3. Remove crossing and rubbing branches.
      4. Remove old, weak canes.
      5. Encourage growth by removing faded and dead flowers often.
      6. Maintain an open center to improve and maintain good air circulation.

5. Winterizing

1. 1. 1. Rake up fallen leaves and other debris from around the plant.
      2. Mound up mulch around the base of the plant. Please note: It is very important to pull the mulch away as new growth begins in the spring.
      3. Prune back the branches to the main canes.
      4. Climbing roses require little if any pruning.
      5. Grafted rose trees may need to be laid down and mulched over or moved to a shed or garage for proper protection. Please speak to our staff for advice about tree roses.

We have everything you need to successfully grow and enjoy roses.

Tools You Will Need

• Pruning shears
• Gloves
• Bone Meal
• Peat Moss
• Soaker Hose
• Shovel
• Espoma Rose-tone® fertilizer