That all sounds like a lot of work, but I don’t mind if the end result is worth it. Now, how should I take care of them after they are safely planted?
No chemical fertilizer until new growth is well started at least 4 to 6 weeks. Water well and frequently, never let them get too dry. Roses need at least 2 to 3 inches a week especially in hot weather. Use a rain gauge to be sure since summer showers can seem much heavier than they really are. Water in the morning so that the foliage will be well dry before nightfall. After growth has commenced, fertilize with a good rose fertilizer or a premium lawn fertilizer (one with a 16-4-8 analysis). Look for one that is low in chlorine, no more than 5%. Apply lightly to start with, increasing gradually to one cup per month as the plant grows larger. Water well before and after fertilizing. Some good rosarians like to use a feeding soluble fertilizer halfway in between the monthly applications. Have a pH test at least once a year and follow the recommendations as to whether or not to apply lime. Roses grow well between 5.5 and 7.0 but do best between 6.0 and 6.5. Keep blooms trimmed off since th
