Selecting a Planting Site

While roses mainly need sun and water, here are a few more points to consider when planting your roses:

• Roses need 5 to 6 hours of direct sun each day. Morning sun is best, but light afternoon shade is tolerated and even beneficial in hot climates.
• Good air movement helps dew and rain dry quickly, which discourages disease. Plant your roses 2-3 feet apart, or away from other plants to ensure it gets enough breathing room. Rose also don't like very windy areas either, so if there's a prevailing wind in your garden, plant your roses near the shelter of a building, wall, fence or hedge.
• When you dig the hole to plant your rose, check the area's drainage by filling it with water before you drop in the plant. An area with good drainage will empty within several hours, and will ensure that its roots won't rot when watered, or freeze in winter.
  If necessary, you can easily improve drainage with tilling or raised beds.
  If the soil seems too sandy, or is thick like clay, add organic matter like compost, dehydrated cow manure or shredded bark. Remove any large rocks down 18 to 24 inches deep.
• Don't plant near large trees or shrubs. They compete for light, water and nutrients. Avoid eaves or gutters - bushes may be damaged by falling water, snow or ice.
• Consider designing in groups of three of one variety. Not only do mail-order companies sell roses cheaper in groups of threes, but you'll get more impact for the money.