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Therose (Rosaspp.
)is a deciduous shrub best known for its fragrant, colorful flowers.
If your rose fails to thrive, you may need to move it to a more suitable location.
T.Kiya/Flickr/CC By-SA 2.0
Learn how to transplant roses and the best time to do the job.
There are several reasons why you might need to transplant your roses.
Increase Sun Exposure
For roses to grow well, they need a lot of sunlight.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
you might transplant the rose to a location with more optimal lighting conditions.
Improve Soil Drainage
Roses need good drainage.
To improve drainage, add compost to the existing soil to create ahigh-quality loam.
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Allowing enough space for your full-size rose solves several problems sparked by overcrowding.
Pruning can sometimes help, but transplanting is another option.
First, choose a time when your rose is dormant (not actively growing).
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The correct time of year will differ depending on your climate and growing zone.
Second, moderate temperatures are more conducive to success.
You won’t be able to move the plant if the ground is frozen.
On the other hand, hot weather can cause wilting and transplant shock.
The third condition concerns moisture.
Most roses will be dormant during these times.
Temperatures are usually more moderate, with a greater number of moist, cloudy days.
Prune the bush to make it more compact.
Not only will it look better, but there’s a practical reason to prune.
Tip
Experts debate whether the graft union should rest slightly above or below the soil line.
Begin filling in around the roots, feathering them in places where they may be compacted.
Gently tamp down the soil as you refill the hole, and then water the shrub thoroughly.
You may need to add more soil after watering to keep the graft union in the proper position.
It’s best to check your rose every few days to ensure the soil stays moist.
A layer of mulch will conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Once the bush is pruned back, lay the pot on its side and ease the plant out.
Remove any broken roots and shake off old soil.
Fill your container with new soil halfway and position the roots.
Continue filling the pot, pressing lightly.
Finish with a layer of mulch.
Water immediately and enough that it drains through the container holes.
Tips for Transplanting Roses
Replant rose bushes at a depth equal to the plant’s root ball.
Typically, this is 15-18 inches deep.
The bush’s crown should be at or slightly above ground level.
Other types of flowers require transplanting as they enter dormancy.
Although flowers can be transplanted in the middle of summer, it may be more stressful for them.
It’s best to wait for early spring or fall before the extreme temperatures of summer or winter.
