How to Plant Roses

Choose the rose and its place together

Think about the available space before falling for a flower colour. A patio rose, shrub rose and vigorous climber have different needs. Check the plant label for height, spread and support requirements, and leave room to reach it for future care.

Potted and bare-root roses

Container-grown roses offer flexibility about planting time, provided ground conditions are suitable. Bare-root roses are supplied while dormant and need prompt attention so the roots do not dry out. Do not leave either sitting in unsuitable conditions while you wait for a perfect weekend.

Avoid frozen or waterlogged soil. If planting must wait, ask our team how to hold the particular plant safely until conditions improve.

Prepare before taking the plant out

Clear weeds and assess drainage across the planting area. Make a hole wide enough for the roots or rootball without forcing them into a tight space. Have water, tools and any climbing support ready before you begin.

If an old rose grew in the same spot, ask about rose replant problems before installing a replacement.

Set the rose at the correct depth

Water a potted rose before removing its container. Handle the rootball gently and follow the supplied instructions for roots and planting depth. For grafted roses, the position of the graft matters: use the grower’s guidance or ask our horticulturists rather than guessing.

Backfill carefully, firm gently and water in. Install supports without damaging the roots.

Make the first season count

Check moisture at the root area while the rose establishes, including after dry or windy weather. A pot or newly disturbed soil may dry differently from the surrounding border.

Keep the label so future pruning matches the type. Continue with our rose-care guide, or browse the rose collection to compare varieties.

Further reading: RHS rose planting.