Planting Roses: Step-by-Step Guide for Potted Roses and Bare Root Roses

October and November are the best months to plant roses. The soil is still warm, the air is moist, and the plants are dormant. Whether you choose potted roses or bare root roses, with the right preparation you give your roses a healthy start.
In this planting guide from Belle Epoque, you will read step by step how to proceed.

Planting Potted Roses

Potted roses are easy to plant and can be put in the ground almost all year round, as long as it does not freeze. Follow the steps below for a healthy transition to the open ground.

Preparation

The most important thing is that you do not damage the root system when you take the rose out of the plastic pot.

Step 1: Dig a Planting Hole

Make a spacious planting hole of at least 50 x 50 cm. This gives the roots enough room to spread.

Step 2: Improve the Soil

Fill the hole with rose or garden soil, preferably organic, to maintain healthy soil life. Mix this well with the existing soil.

Step 3: Remove the Rose from the Pot

Cut the pot open on two sides down to the bottom and carefully remove the rose with the root ball intact. This keeps the roots and the soil around the root ball intact.

Step 4: Plant the Rose

Place the rose in the planting hole, fill in with soil and press the soil firmly so that no air pockets remain.

Step 5: Water

Water generously immediately after planting and repeat regularly during dry periods, except when it freezes.

Extra tip: it is better to water deeply once a week than a little every day — this encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil.

Planting Bare Root Roses

Bare root roses (also called root-naked roses) are planted between October and March, preferably in November. During this period they are dormant, allowing them to root optimally before spring.

Preparing the Roots

Place the bare roots for 2 to 4 hours in a bucket of cold water before you start planting. This hydrates the roots and helps them get off to a good start.

Step 1: Dig a Planting Hole

Loosen the soil well with a spade and dig a hole wide enough so the roots can lie freely without folding.
The depth should be such that the graft union (where the main side shoots begin) is about 5 cm below the ground. This protects the rose from frost and prevents wild growth.

Step 2: Add Garden Soil

Add 3 to 4 handfuls of garden soil or rose soil into the planting hole. This creates a loose and nourishing soil for the young roots.

Step 3: Press the Soil

Press the soil firmly with your foot so that the soil fits well around the roots. This prevents air pockets from remaining.

Step 4: Water

Water the rose well immediately so the soil closes and the roots stay moist. Repeat regularly during dry periods, except when it freezes.

Grower's Tip

• Preferably plant on a cloudy day – this prevents the roots from drying out.

• Do not use artificial fertilizer when planting; it can burn the young roots. Wait until spring for that.

• Cover the soil after planting with some compost or leaves to protect the soil from cold.

The Most Beautiful Roses, Directly from the Grower

Whether you choose potted roses or bare root roses – at Belle Epoque you will always find the most beautiful varieties, directly from the grower in Aalsmeer.
Our collection consists of historic, English, and modern roses, carefully selected for scent, colour, and character.