- When choosing a spot to grow roses, keep in mind that they need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, and exposure to morning sunlight is ideal. Roses will also grow better if they are not in shaded areas and are away from other trees or shrubs that will compete for moisture and nutrients.
The best time to plant roses is from early spring to early fall. Spring or early summer plantings are generally better because they allow the plant's root system to adequately establish itself before cold winter weather sets in. - Testing and modifying the conditions of soil in the planting area can result in healthier rose bushes. Roses thrive in soil that is well-drained and loamy (meaning a mixture of sand, clay, silt and organic matter) with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7. Once you are happy with the quality of the soil, it is beneficial to apply superphosphate to the planting area to encourage root growth.
- Proper spacing will allow roses to grow better; if individual plants become crowded, they tend to grow tall and spindly, producing fewer and smaller flowers. Spacing distances vary based on specific types of roses. Shrub roses should be placed as far apart as their mature height; climbers should have 8 to 12 feet between each plant for climbing fences, and 3 feet of space for climbing walls. Hybrid teas, grandifloras and floribunda should be spaced 18 to 30 inches apart, and miniatures should have 12 to 15 inches between them.
- Prepare a hole measuring about 15 inches deep and 18 inches wide for each rose plant. Bare-root plants should be placed in the hole and then covered up with soil, all the way to their graft union or "knob." Adding water while filling in the hole will help settle the soil around the roots. With potted roses, remove their containers, and place the plants in the soil with their soil balls resting at ground level. A common mistake with potted roses is that people tend to bury them too deeply.
- The newly planted rose bushes will have a great start on growing strong if their root system was given plenty of water during the planting process. Roses require 1 inch of water per week. Watering them from overhead can cause diseases in the plant; instead apply water at soil level and allow to thoroughly soak in, to encourage deep rooting. Many planters choose to add mulch around their roses, which will help reduce water evaporation during the summer.
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