Question: Tuesday, January 09, 2001
I have orders for rosebushes coming in the mail and being shipped in April, and I wonder how long I need to keep the roots of the roses moist until the ground is warm enough for planting. Frosts in my zone don't leave until late May, early June. Should the water being used to keep the roots moist be changed and how often?
Answer:
Spring planting should be done as early as possible, and as soon as the frost is out of the ground. A newly planted rose establishes iself quickest in the cool moist spring soil, rather than in May, when the air is often hot and dry. It is most important not to let plant roots dry out before planting. Ideally, roses should be planted immediately when received. If this is not possible, then store the plants in a closed plastic bag in a cool frost-proof place. If the branches look shriveled, the plants may be immersed in water until the bark looks smooth again, however, do not leave in water longer than necessary. If planting is to be delayed for a considerable time, bury the plants in moist earth in a slated position, leaving only the branch tips sticking out.
Groundskeeper@marksgarden.com
