Adding organic matter will improve the texture and drainage of compacted or clay soils that drain too slowly. When soil drainage problems cannot be corrected, raised beds can also be used for growing roses. Construction materials for the beds must be carefully selected because creosote or copper-treated timbers are toxic to roses. Checking soil pH and nutrition prior to planting is important. A soil pH of 6.0 - 7.0 optimizes nutrient uptake in roses.
Nitrogen moves easily through the soil and can be applied before or after planting.
Phosphorous and potassium do not move easily or far in soil, so it is more effective to incorporate them prior to planting. Garden size depends on the number of roses being planted, their mature sizes, and on spacing between plants. Remember that good air flow around roses results in healthier plants, and space your plants accordingly. Because of rose thorns, it is also important to leave enough space between plants to ensure that maintenance can be done as painlessly as possible. Purchasing Plants Local nurseries usually sell roses as container-grown plants that are actively growing and sometimes blooming, so gardeners can see what plants looks like before purchasing them.