Although roses have a reputation of being difficult to grow and keep, rose gardening is actually very simple and rewarding. With careful planning and good maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful blooming garden that your friends and neighbors will admire. At its simplest, rose gardening consists of five parts, or five "Ps": Plan, Prepare, Plant, Prune, and Protect.
Plan:
Your first step in any garden project is to plan, and rose gardening is no exception. You can begin by looking through catalogs, gardening magazines, or your local garden center. When selecting plants, you should consider the color first. Think of the color scheme you are going for, both with your roses and the accompanying plants. Next, consider the size and shape of the plants you want when selecting varieties. From hardy climbers to miniature roses suited for container gardens, there is a variety and size for every situation. Remember in the planning stage, that roses do require a good deal of sunlight (a minimum of 4-5 hours depending on variety) to thrive. A shady spot will not be fertile ground for your rose garden.
Prepare:
Once you have selected your plants, the next step is to prepare the ground. Most experts agree that careful conditioning of soil is vital to the eventual success and health of your rose garden. Simply put, the extra work you complete before planting will pay off in the long run in the way of healthier plants. Begin by digging a one foot hole (saving the dirt you've removed for later use). Next, mix compost, peat moss or manure into the soil. Now, you can replace the first foot of soil and begin your planting.
Plant:
Once your soil is conditioned, you can begin planting according to each variety's specifications. You will want to create a hole about six inches larger and deeper than the plant you are putting in the ground. You should gently remove the plant from its container or wrapping, so as not to damage the root system during transplanting. Pack the soil back down around the plant and water thoroughly. At this time, it is also recommended to add a layer of mulch to control moisture and protect the root system as your plant grows.
Prune:
While your newly planted roses will not need pruning for another growing season, any existing roses should be pruned. Early spring, just as the buds are beginning to swell, is the best time for pruning.
Protect:
Your rose garden is in danger from pests, fungus and rust and extreme weather conditions that jeopardize its health. You can eliminate pests with simple pesticides just as needed. You can prevent and protect your plants from fungus and rust by watering always at the roots of the plant, never the leaves and by careful pruning and deadheading. Mulch will be your ally in keeping weather related damage at bay, both in summer and winter.
Plan, prepare, plant, prune and protect: the five steps that will get you started and keep you successful in your rose gardening.
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