With the soil beginning to warm but a lingering chill still in the air, there’s still time to plant bare-root roses. However, don’t delay – the window for planting is closing fast. A horticultural expert explains what to prioritise now, and why timing matters more than you might think.
The gardening season may feel as though it's only just getting started, but some opportunities are already slipping away. Bare-root trees and shrubs, including roses, need time to establish strong root systems before spring growth accelerates.
Because they're planted while dormant, they can go into the ground as early as October and right through late winter, which makes this your last chance to plant.
'March and early April are the last opportunities for planting bare-root plants while they are still dormant,' says Paul Parker from plants and bulbs specialists J. Parker’s. Once active growth begins, the focus shifts above ground, making establishment more challenging.
Wondering if bare-root roses are the right choice for your garden? Consider these benefits. 'Bare-root plants are sold without a pot or soil, so they come as described with their roots exposed. This makes them easier to handle and usually more affordable,' Paul shares.
Without compost or bulky containers, they're also easier to transport and position, making them a low-effort yet highly impactful addition to your garden. Unlike other plants, bare-root roses establish quickly and will give you a beautiful, fragrant display the same year you plant them.
More gardening advice:
- Prune your roses now for bigger summer blooms – just avoid this common mistake
- Plant these 6 perennials in March for stunning summer colour
- How to create a wildlife-friendly garden that attracts bees and birds year-round
So if you're keen to introduce a new rose bush to your plot, don't delay. 'The key to getting your bare-root plants to thrive is timing,' says Paul. Getting them into the ground now allows just enough time for roots to settle and establish before the demands of spring and summer kick in.
Start by choosing a sunny, sheltered spot in a border or against a fence and make sure the ground isn't frozen or waterlogged. Then, dig a hole wide and deep enough to comfortably accommodate the roots without bending or crowding them.
Before you plant the rose, soak its roots in water for a couple of hours to rehydrate and activate it. Once positioned, fill the hole with soil and water well. For an extra boost, add some mulch to retain moisture and deter weeds.
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