From Seed to Flower: How to Grow a Rose Garden
March 13, 2008 by The Gardener
Filed under Gardening, Roses
Though most people start their rose garden by planting plants which are about two years old and nearly ready to bloom, it is also possible to start a rose garden right from the seed stage. This is a very popular method, especially when people want to cultivate heirloom or antique type of roses. You could even create your own hybrid variety of roses if you have the time and inclination to do so.
To start with the seeding you would require a soil which is made up of equal quantities of potting soil and vermiculite. Proper seedlings can show up only with plenty of sunlight and watering. When seedlings finally show up, transplant them on to a pot and let it remain there for a year before you transplant it outdoors. According to many experts, potted rose plants should be kept under controlled conditions for almost five years before you take them out in the open and plant it on the ground.
Before you finally plant the rose plant outdoors, it is imperative that the soil is primed and conditioned well. Begin by digging a hole on the ground which is about a foot deep and then add compost or peat moss immediately before planting. You could even add a layer of bone meal as you replace your first layer of soil and then start with your planting routine.
After you have readied the soil for planting your rose plant, follow the directions which are specific for each type of rose. Most however need a hole which is about 6 inches deeper and wider than the plant you are planning to insert underground. While you pick up the tiny plant from its wrapping or container, be very gentle as not to destroy the roots during transplantation. Insert the dug up soil gently around the plant and water thoroughly. During this growth phase, you could get very good results if you add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, as this retains the soil moisture and prevents the root system from any damage.
Though your newly planted rose plant would not need any pruning till the next growing season, any existing rose plant would need it. The best time for pruning is during early spring when the buds are just beginning to swell.
During rose gardening, it is one of your primary responsibilities to keep your rose garden free of pests, fungus and rust. These, along with extreme weather conditions can spell doom for your rose garden. Pest control can be done by using recommended pesticides and you can keep your plants free of fungal and rust attack, if you water your plants carefully only at the roots and never on the stem, leaves or flowers. All weather related damages can be warded off if your use mulch both during summer as well as winter.
All it requires is a bit of patience and a little hard work and you can grow your rose garden from the seed level with ease. There is nothing more pleasurable to see the fruits of your labor in the form of healthy and beautiful blooms which cover your garden and heart.
Rose Maven recommends MiniGarden.com, PlantWebsite.com, and Williger.com.
Related posts:
