When is the best time to plant roses? Garden experts reveal why timing is everything

Roses are undoubtedly one of the most popular additions to any garden; with such a variety of colours and low-maintenance needs, it's no wonder they're a beloved staple. However, to really get the best out of them, knowing when to plant them is key.

Not only are roses one of the best cottage garden plants, but they're also great climbing plants for pergolas too. Which is why so many gardeners are keen to add them to their outdoor spaces, plus they're usually quite easy to care for once you learn how to grow them properly.

Before you can learn how to prune roses and water them, you'll first need to know when the best time to plant them is. Which is why we spoke to horticulture and garden experts to find out when in the year you should introduce the plant to your garden.

When is the best time to plant roses?

Whether you're trying out some cottage garden ideas or want to add more colour to your garden, planting roses is a great choice.

"The best time to plant roses depends on the type of roses that you buy. Bare root roses can be planted in late autumn once leaves have fallen, or between late winter and early spring before their growing season resumes. Containerised and container-grown roses can be planted all year round, as long as the ground is not frozen or very dry," says Richard Barker, horticulture expert and Commercial Director at LBS Horticulture.

"The worst time to plant roses is during the height of summer, as the heat and dry air can stress the plant, with its leaves losing water faster than damaged roots can replace it. It is also not recommended to plant roses when the ground is frozen, as this makes digging a planting hole much harder, and plant roots will be unable to absorb the water and nutrients that they need to survive," continues Richard.

So whilst it's certainly not something to add to your summer gardening jobs list, you also won't want to leave it until the winter time either.

Where should you not plant roses?

Depending on your garden's soil type and whether you're planting in a north-facing garden, you'll have to be careful with where you plant your roses.

They're not a plant best suited for shade and will need a certain soil to ensure they can thrive. Richard explains the different places in your garden you shouldn't plant roses.

• Shaded areas: "Full shade or areas of your garden that receive less than four hours of shade a day are not recommended for roses, as this can lead to weak growth or the plant producing fewer flowers," explains Richard.
• Waterlogged and heavy clay soils: He also points out that soil with poor drainage can increase the risk of root rot.
• Under large trees: Richard says, "Roses planted under large trees will need to compete with the tree roots for water and food, and the shade cast by the tree can block sunlight."
• Windy or exposed areas: It's also recommended you avoid areas where the plant will be exposed to strong gales, which can snap rose stems or loosen their roots.
• Old rose beds: "Planting new roses in an old rose bed without replacing the soil can cause replant disease. This occurs when new plants struggle or die because they are placed in soil where the same type of plant, or one that is closely related, has just grown," Richard says.

Richard Barker

With 4 years in the industry, Richard is a gardening expert at LBS Horticulture. He is keen to share his knowledge with both experienced and beginner gardeners, and prides himself on keeping up to date with the latest horticultural trends.

FAQs

Are roses better planted in pots or in the ground?

Whilst you might want to had roses as a patio container plant in your garden, the experts are quick to recommend planting them in the ground instead.

"If you've got the garden space, I'd usually recommend planting roses directly into the ground. This way they can develop a much larger root system, cope better with the all-too-common dry spells we’ve been experiencing in the UK, and generally need less attention once established," David Denyer, florist and gardening expert at Eflorist.

“Of course, that’s not to say you can't grow beautiful roses in containers too. Patio, miniature and many shrub varieties perform brilliantly in pots, making them perfect for balconies, terraces and smaller gardens. The key is choosing a large enough container with good drainage, opting for a high-quality compost, and remembering that container-grown roses rely entirely on you for water and nutrients.

Although outdoor plants don't usually need watering every day during hot weather, your roses in pots will need a little more attention than those that grow in the ground.

“Potted roses need watering more regularly during warmer weather and feeding throughout the growing season. With the right care, they can flower just as beautifully, with the benefit of being able to move them around outdoor spaces to make the most of their colour and fragrance," continues David.

“Whichever option you choose, regular maintenance is what keeps roses performing at their best. Consistent watering during dry spells and removing spent blooms throughout summer encourages repeat flowering and helps keep the plant healthy," he adds.

David Denyer

As a celebrated figure in the world of floral design, David has captivated audiences with his stunning floral arrangements and designs for years. He is a two-time Florist of the Year and six-time Chelsea Gold Medalist, whilst also being the in-house flower expert for Eflorist.

Which month is best to plant roses?

Even though you may be itching to get your roses planted as soon as possible, experts suggest waiting until you're completing your October gardening jobs.

“If I had to pick one month, I’d go with October as it offers a well-balanced combination of warm soil, reduced air temperatures, and increasing natural moisture- all perfect conditions for roots to establish ahead of winter dormancy," explains David.

Once your roses have grown and established, it's important that you know how often you need to water the plant and keep it pruned during the summer for long-lasting blooms.