Own-root roses should be planted at the same level as they grew. Place rose in planting hole and fill halfway up to sides of root ball. Firm soil and drench with a full bucket of water. Watering and Mulching Let drain and fill up the rest of the hole. Firm again and drench with another bucket of water.
Roses perform best when they have abundant water.
Deep, thorough watering is best. Wet foliage promotes spread of the disease black spot. Water in morning so foliage will be thoroughly dry by evening. Fertilizing Mulch roses with 3-4 of shredded hardwood mulch. Container roses purchased at the nursery have been fertilized.