When and how do I transplant roses?Updated 19 days ago
A good rule of thumb in any growing zone is to move an established rose at the same time you would be planting bare root roses and doing your yearly dormant pruning.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the New Location: Dig a hole in the new spot that's at least twice as wide and as deep as the rose's root ball. Add some compost to enrich the soil. BONUS STEP: Get a soil test done in your new planting location and use the results to determine how best to prepare the soil prior to transplanting.
- Prune the Rose: Trim back about one-third of the plant to reduce stress on the roots and make it easier to handle.
- Dig Up the Rose: Start digging about 12-15 inches away from the main stem to avoid damaging the roots. Go down as deep as possible to get a good portion of the root ball.
- Replant Quickly: Transfer the rose to its new spot immediately to prevent the roots from drying out. Place it at the same depth it was growing before, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly. You can also plant it in a pot if you need to move it to a new permanent location at a later time.
- Aftercare: Water the rose well after transplanting and keep an eye on it through the winter. Applying a layer of mulch around the base can help retain moisture and protect roots.
The key is timing the transplanting around dormancy and minimizing root disturbance so you rose will thrive in its new location!