How to Grow English Roses

So be prepared for a new gardening obsession as we teach you how to grow English roses, the best varieties we love and tips for having the greatest success in all areas of the country.

How to Plant

Most English roses grow well in zones 5-9, but a few can be grown down to zone 4. Plant them in the fall or early spring for bare root, or anytime but the hottest months of the year for potted roses. Add compost to your planting hole, and plant with the graft union (the big bump at the base of the plant) 2-3 inches under the ground level in cold weather areas. This will help protect the root system in the winter.

Water

Newly planted roses will need to stay moist the first season, so they may need water every other day. Once established, a regular moderate watering schedule for your climate will work well.

Fertilizer

Fertilize with any rose fertilizer once in the beginning of the season, and then once after the first bloom flush to stimulate repeat flowering all summer.