Question
Hi!!! I was given a potted rose plant (1 gallon) and i wish to plant it in my yard before it dies.  is there a trick to this?  i live in n. california and the weather is in the high 90's today but getting cooler by the weekend.  i have never planted a rose bush before so i am asking for specific instrcutions please. thank you so much!!! love, kelli

Answer
Hi Kelli-

Boy - I wish I had the growing conditions of Northern California - this is one of the best places to grow anything! First, select a site with good drainage, and it needs to get at least 6 hours of sun a day. You'll need to dig a hole which should be at least 2 ft. diameter, and 2 ft. deep (or twice the size of the root ball).  Use good rose soil or garden soil (I prefer moisture control potting soil in my area because of drought).  Put the garden/rose soil in the bottom of the hole, and plant the rose so the base of it is even with the ground level.  After you plant it, step around the plant (not directly on it) to remove the air pockets in the soil.  Apply approximately 3 inches of mulch.  Water it in thoroughly (or set the sprinkler for 30 minutes). Wait at least 1 week before applying a time-release granulated fertilizer.  Keep watering regularly (once a week in cooler weather, and 2-3 times a week in hot weather).

Good luck!

Carlene