Question
I recently got a rose bush/shrub that I can not plant in the ground.  How do I care for a potted rose bush?  Also, how much water, how much sun, how do I prune it?  Obviously Im clueless over here.  The rose bush was an anniversary present and is not just beautiful but special.  I dont want to kill it but it all ready looks wilted.  Please help!  Megan

Answer
Most roses, except minis, need about 18 inches if depth to accommodate their roots and usually the pot they come in isn't large enough. If a pot is any smaller, the roots will get hot and put the rose under stress. Roses love cool, damp roots and a bigger pot gives them that. So if possible get it into a larger container and any plastic tub with a few holes in the base is perfect. Use a bagged potting soil which will be sterile with no bugs in it. Plant the rose and place it where it will not get hot afternoon sun. All it needs is about 6 hours of full sun. Roses in pots always get too hot in full sun all day. Sprinkle  some Osmocote 14-14-14 around the base and that will take care of the fertilizing for all summer as it is a slow release type. Water  every three days and make sure the water gets to the bottom of the pot and starts to come out the holes. All you need is about a bucket of water every three days. When the flowers have died,  just snap them off with your fingers as it is a shrub and that is all you need to do. The new growth will start right behind where you broke the flower off. If you get a very cold winter, then bring the pot into a garage when all the leaves have fallen off. Give it a cup of water every month and then place it outside when the weather warms up.