How To Choose Roses To Grow
Many a veteran gardener hesitates when it comes to starting a rose garden because of the inherent difficulties in choosing the right variety and in caring for the plants throughout the year. This does not mean that you cannot get your roses to grow; all it takes is a little bit of planning before you start your garden.
Step 1 – Soil Test
You need to check your soils pH balance for acidity / alkalinity. The ideal soil pH balance for roses is anywhere between 5.3 and 7.0 depending on the type of rose. For testing your soil you will need a spade, a few bottles of distilled water, and a calibrated and very clean pH tester. Dig a small hole about 2 to 4 inches deep, in at least 6 different spots in your garden where you plan to plant your roses. The 6 measurements will help you arrive at the average pH of your entire rose garden. Now fill the first hole with distilled water and wait for the water to drain out and then add some more until you see a puddle at the bottom of the hole. Dip the tester into the mud and keep it there for a minute. Repeat the procedure in all the other holes. If the pH readings are similar you can take the average of all 6 measurements. If you find that one spot is drastically different from the others, you will need to consult your nursery on how to treat it. A pH of 7.0 means you have neutral soil, less than 7.0 indicates acidity and more than 7.0, alkalinity.
Step 2 – Select the best roses for your climate zone
Roses can grow anywhere but they thrive in warm temperatures with the occasional light breeze. Your nursery will be able to guide you on the roses best suited to your weather conditions. Wild roses definitely are the best choice for very cold climates as they are very sturdy and survive the harshest winters with very little maintenance. If you live in the USA, you can find your climate zone using the USDA Plant Hardiness Map http://www.usna.usda.gov/Hardzone/ushzmap.html.
Step 3 – Decide on the type of rose you wish to grow
There are two choices you need to make before you bring your rose plant home.
The first is whether you want it to blossom repeatedly through the year or if you will be content with annual blooms. The most popular roses are Alba, Gallica, Damask, Centifolia, and Moss which flower once a year, and China, Portland, Bourbon, Hybrid Perpetual, and Tea which have frequent blossoming cycles throughout the year.
The second is whether you want a climber or a shrub. If you are looking at decorating your hedges or trellis with roses, a climber is a good choice.
Whichever type you opt for, make sure you insist on only disease-resistant varieties.
If you plan your rose garden well, the efforts you will have to take in planting, watering, pruning, and feeding your roses will not be a wasted effort.
If you happen to be one of those unfortunate few who started a rose garden without planning, don’t give up hope – rescuing your roses can be done with a little effort and care. Speedy diagnosis and treatment of diseases, interspersing your garden with other plants to deter bugs, and using appropriate fertilizers, will soon rejuvenate your plants.
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