Classic Rose Collection

Bare-root roses are planted while dormant, usually from late autumn to early spring. Plant them as soon as possible after delivery, as long as the ground is not frozen or waterlogged.

This is normal. Bare-root roses are supplied dormant, without leaves or a pot of compost. Once planted and the weather warms, new shoots should emerge from the stems and base of the plant.

Yes. Soak the roots in a bucket of water for at least 2 hours before planting. Dig a hole wide enough for the roots to spread out naturally, then plant with the graft union, the swollen join at the base of the stems, at soil level.

A newly planted rose may spend its first season establishing roots before producing its best display. Poor flowering can also be caused by too little sun, dry soil, lack of feeding or incorrect pruning. Most roses perform best with at least 6 hours of sun each day.

Rose black spot is a common fungal disease. Remove and dispose of affected leaves, including fallen leaves around the base, and water the soil rather than the foliage. Keeping the plant well fed, watered in dry spells and pruned for good airflow helps reduce repeat outbreaks.