How to Care for a Rose

Overview

Many beginning gardeners are intimidated by roses due to the flower's reputation for being difficult to grow, which couldn't be further from the truth. Roses will do exceedingly well when provided regular, basic care. Before adding roses to your garden, be sure to select a variety that will thrive in the climate where you live. Most garden centers are knowledgeable in regards to planting zones and can help you choose roses suitable for your particular climate.

Step 1

Select an area that receives moderate to full sun in which to plant the rose bush. Ideally, this area would receive five hours of sun each day.

Step 2

Choose terrain and soil that drains adequately after periods of rain. Pooling of water around a rose is an invitation for disease.

Step 3

Select a planting area that receives good air circulation. Fungus and other bacteria love areas where air is limited and stagnant.

Step 4

Begin feeding your roses when the first new leaves appear. Use a quality commercial brand rose food available at any home/garden center. Continue feeding every two to three weeks.

Step 5

Apply 1 to 2 inches of organic mulch around your rose plants to deter pests and weeds.

Step 6

Use pruning shears to prune roses as soon as rose blooms begin to wither. Cut the stems of the withered blooms at an angle, between the withered bloom and a five-leaf cluster of leaves, leaving the cluster of leaves on the rose plant.

Step 7

Apply a drop of pruning sealer to the end of the stem where you made the cut to help keep the plant healthy.

Step 8

Water roses each week by using a gallon jug with small holes punched in one side of the bottom of the jug. Fill the jug with at least 2 inches of water and set the jug near the base of the plant with the holes closest to the base.