Go Green

While the most common way to begin your rose garden is certainly with plants that are about two years old and are already well on their way to flowering, it is also very possible to start a rose garden from seed. Growing roses from seed has become especially popular for cultivating heirloom or antique variety roses. It is even possible to create your own hybrids if you have the interest, time and patience to do so.

Rose seeds should be started indoors, in a soil of half potting soil and half vermiculite. The seeds will need careful watering and plenty of sunlight while you await the seedlings. Once seedlings emerge it is advisable to transplant them into individual pots and keep them growing in that way for at least a year before planting outside. Some experts would suggest keeping plants in controlled conditions and pots for up to 5 years before planting in the ground.

Once your seedlings are ready to be planted, the next step is to prepare the ground. Good soil preparation is essential to a healthy garden. To start, dig a hole about one foot in depth, adding compost or peat moss before planting. An additional layer of bone meal may also be added as you replace the first foot of soil and begin your planting.

Once your soil is ready, follow the planting directions for each individual variety. For most a hole about six inches larger and deeper than the plant you are putting in the ground is required. You should gently remove the plant from its container or wrapping, so as not to damage the root system during transplanting. Pack the soil back down around the plant and water thoroughly. At this time, it is also recommended to add a layer of mulch to control moisture and protect the root system as your plant grows.

While your newly planted roses will not need pruning for another growing season, any existing roses should be pruned. Early spring, just as the buds are beginning to swell, is the best time for pruning.

To keep your rose garden healthy and thriving, take the time to keep it clear of dangerous pests, fungus and rust . These, along with severe weather conditions can all be a danger. You can eliminate pests with simple pesticides just as needed. You can prevent and protect your plants from fungus and rust by watering always at the roots of the plant, never the leaves and by careful pruning and deadheading. Mulch will be your ally in keeping weather related damage at bay, both in summer and winter.

With some patience and a little work, your roses started from seed will eventually provide you with abundant flowering plants and a real sense of accomplishment.