Growing Roses

Here's the thing, I don't really like roses, except for wild roses, which are essentially maintenance-free and do not lacerate your hands when you're trying to take care of them. Having said that, many if not most people love roses, and there is a wealth of information available on the Web and other places about planting, pruning, feeding, and otherwise caring for them.

Rose-related information can be overwhelming and over-complicated, so here are just a few very simple guidelines and techniques that have worked well for me.

Space roses at least 2 1/2 feet apart.

Pick a sunny spot for planting; roses must have lots of sun (and lots of water) during the growing season. You can plant new roses until mid- or late April in moderate to colder climates.

Make sure the planting holes are at least twice the circumference of the rose roots (or root ball).

When planting, dig down 18 inches or two feet (if your back can take it) and fill the hole with organically-enriched soil, which you can buy or "make" via the compost pile.

Plant chives around the roses; this seems to discourage beetles. You'll need to snip the chives periodically during the growing season, of course. (Thanks to my Mom for this great tip.)

Prune roses in very late Fall or very early Spring.

You want more details? Here are some links to rose-growing experts:

Planting and caring for roses

Pruning roses

Organic rose-growing forum

Jack E. Christiansen's Practical Rose-Growing Tips

And my favorite: the EveryRose Rose Reference Library

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