Thank you for choosing our roses! These plants are shipped in tall 9cm pots and, while small, are fully rooted and ready to grow. We recommend potting them into a 1- or 2-gallon container to allow them to develop strong roots before planting them out into your garden or larger pots. Once rooted in, they’ll establish quickly and reward you with healthy growth and beautiful blooms.

Here’s a quick guide to the essentials for growing roses successfully:

Soil

Roses thrive in soil that is rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic (a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal). Adding compost, aged manure, or organic matter when planting improves soil structure and provides essential nutrients. Avoid heavy clay or sandy soils unless amended with organic material to improve drainage or water retention.

Site

Choose a location with good air circulation and plenty of space for your roses to grow. Avoid planting too close to walls or fences where airflow may be restricted, as this can encourage fungal diseases. Roses prefer areas with protection from harsh winds but should still receive plenty of sunlight.

Sun

Roses love sunlight. For best results, plant them in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is particularly important to help dry off any dew on the foliage, reducing the risk of fungal infections like black spot or mildew.

Water

Consistent watering is key to healthy roses, especially when they’re establishing in a new pot or in the ground. Water deeply at the base of the plant, soaking the root zone, and allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk.

Mulch

A 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your roses helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like shredded bark, straw, or composted leaves work well and will break down over time, enriching the soil. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the base of the plant to avoid stem rot.

Fertilizer

Roses are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content, such as a 3-1-2 ratio, during the growing season. Organic options like alfalfa meal, aged manure, or well-rotted compost are also excellent choices. Begin feeding when you see new growth in spring and stop in late summer to allow the plant to prepare for dormancy.

This guide covers the basics to get your roses off to a great start. I’d definitely recommend you start with checking rose care articles on our main site for more information. With these essentials in place, your roses will grow strong and thrive in your garden for years to come. Let us know if you have any questions or need further guidance—we’re here to help.

Jason & Lisa
Fraser Valley Rose Farm