Question
I bought a rose in a planter 18 months ago but she doesn't know where she wants to plant it so it is still in the container.  Since we got it, though, it has not flowered nor produced a single bud.  Is this normal, or does it have to be planted before it blooms?  I am a neophyte when it comes to roses, so should I plant it in full sun or partial sun/shade?  We live in Riverside, CA, and it sometimes gets into the hi 20s at night and daytime summer is usually 100+.  Thank you for your help.

Answer
Cecile Brunner is one of the best roses for a container but does better when planted in the garden. Roses hate to have warm roots and a container gives them that so they can sulk until planted in the cool soil. Just make sure you plant it where the rose will get about 6 hours of full sun and then shade for the rest of the day. This way the sun will not burn or dry out the plant if you forget to water it. Plus the flowers will last longer. Plant the rose in a hole and then scatter about 2 tablespoons of slow release fertilizer, such as Osmocote 14-14-14, all around the base. This will be all the fertilizer you will need for the rest of the summer. Then let it have a rest over the winter coolness. Water it every three days when temperatures are normal but every day when they hit 100'