THE Bare-Root Advantage
When roses enter winter dormancy, wholesale growers harvest the plants--roots and all--and ship them to nurseries and garden centers. The dormant plants do not suffer transplant shock and will establish healthy root systems faster than would a container-grown rose planted in spring. They cost half as much and are easier to plant.
How to plant bare-root roses:
What to look for:
* At least three sturdy canes
* Canes spread out like a fan for symmetrical growth
* Canes firmly attached to bud union
* Buds closed, not leafing out
* A “No. 1” or “A” grade listing on packaging
Most nurseries sell only top-grade plants. Grocery stores and large, discount garden centers often sell smaller, less vigorous plants that will take longer to establish in your garden.
Ratings
The American Rose Society (ARS) rates roses on a 10-point scale, based on color, fragrance, form, lasting quality, disease resistance, and abundance of bloom. No rose has ever scored a 10; those rated 8.0 and higher are considered solid performers:
* 10.0 Perfect
* 9.0-9.9 Outstanding
* 8.0-8.9 Excellent
* 7.0-7.9 Good
* 6.0-6.9 Fair
* 5.9 and lower Poor
Ratings are published annually in the society’s “Handbook for Selecting Roses,” available at nurseries or from the ARS at P.O. Box 30000 Shreveport, LA 71130-0030. (318) 938-5402.
Where to Plant
Roses should be planted away from trees in a spot that receives at least five hours of sunlight each day. Plant tall bushes at the back or center of the garden bed, surrounded by more compact varieties. Space bushes according to package directions. If not planting immediately, store unopened bundles in a shady spot. Keep moist.
Dig Hole
Common mistakes are to dig the hole too deep and too narrow.
* The proper diameter and depth should be 12 to 24 inches.
* Add a handful of organic fertilizer such as blood meal and bonemeal to bottom of hole.
* Form a mound in bottom of planting hole with a mixture of native soil and planting mix in equal parts.
Planting
Remove packaging. Shake off sawdust from around roots and snip off any shriveled stems and roots. If roots appear dry, soak plant overnight in water.
1. Place plant on top of mound. The bud union should be positioned about 1 inch above soil level. Gently spread the roots so they lie evenly around the mound. Lay an inch-thick board across top of hole to help position the bud union one inch above soil level.
2. Backfill hole halfway with planting mixture and native soil. Pack soil firmly with palms of hands to eliminate air pockets.
3. Fill hole completely. Firm soil by treading gently around the plant, starting at outer edge and working toward center. Add more planting mix until hole is full, firming as necessary.
4. Water thoroughly. Do not feed. When new growth and leaves appear, feed with a dry, granulated rose food. Liquid fertilizer may be applied in between feedings.
TIP
This additional step will give your bare-root plants a head start by protecting them from winter sun and Santa Ana winds:
* Mound loose, moistened soil over top of plant to about 3 inches from top of canes. Do not use planting mix, compost or decorative bark. These contain wood by-products that are toxic to emerging shoots. When new growth appears, usually in two to three weeks, wash away mound.
Sources: “Coastal Roses: Selection and Care for Southern California,” by Stuart W. Span (Roger’s Gardens); “The Rose Expert,” by D.G. Hessayon (PBI Publications); Laguna Hills Nursery; Times reports
Graphics reporting by JANICE JONES DODDS/Los Angeles Times
