Roses are deep-rooting plants, thus the need for deep watering to ensure that moisture reaches feeders, and that hopefully moisture persists at that level.

Planting of a bare-root rose therefore requires that a hole of at least a spade’s depth is dug and of about 45cms. diameter. Earth within this hole should be chopped about and loosened. It may be of advantage to add some compost to the bottom of the hole, but ensure it is covered with soil before planting the rose. A small mound should be made in the base of the hold upon which to sit the base of the rootstock, spreading roots over and around this mound. In the case of all roses except Standard (Stem) roses, the union (scion) should be positioned just above ground level (a stick laid across the top of the hole is a useful guide).

For Standard roses a stake to support the stem is hammered in the centre of the hold before building the mound and placing the stem onto the mound. Earth is then drawn into the hole, jiggling the rose lightly to assist earth to find its way around the roots, and when earth in the hole is level with the surface, while holding the rose, gently firm in the soil with your feet. Fill the resulting depression with a bucket of water, and allow to drain into the soil. Finally top the level of soil up to the surrounding area.

For Standards the stake should be tall enough to protrude up into the branches of the rose. This allows the securing of the rose to the stake right up to the union.