When is the best time to plant roses? Bare root roses should be planted during their dormant season, roughly November to April, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen, waterlogged or in drought. Potted roses can technically be planted at any time of year, but autumn and early spring still give the best results, since the plant has time to establish roots before facing summer heat or winter cold. How do I plant a bare root rose? Soak the roots in a bucket of water for one to two hours before planting. Dig a hole wide and deep enough to comfortably spread the roots out — generally around 45cm (18in) across. Fork over the base and sides of the hole to loosen the soil, and mix in some well-rotted organic matter. Position the rose so the graft union (the knobbly bulge near the base of the stems) sits just below soil level, spread the roots out, then backfill and firm gently. Water in thoroughly with at least one full watering can, even if the soil is damp. How do I plant a potted rose? Dig a hole roughly twice the width of the pot and to the same depth, loosening the soil at the base. Remove the rose from its pot, gently teasing out any tightly circled roots. Plant at the same depth it was growing in the pot, backfill with soil (ideally improved with well-rotted manure or compost), firm in, and water generously. Keep newly planted roses well watered for the first full growing season while roots establish. How much space should I leave between roses? As a general guide, allow around 60cm (2ft) between most shrub roses. Vigorous shrub varieties may need up to 90cm–1m, while climbers and ramblers need more room to spread along their support. Check the expected height and spread of the specific variety, as this varies considerably between rose types. Can I plant a new rose where an old one used to grow? It's best avoided if possible, as roses can suffer from "replant disease" when grown repeatedly in the same soil. If there's no alternative spot, dig out and replace as much of the old soil as practical — at least 45–60cm deep and wide — with soil from elsewhere in the garden or fresh topsoil, and consider using a mycorrhizal fungi treatment at planting time to help the new root system establish. My bare root roses have arrived but I'm not ready to plant them. What should I do? For short delays of up to two to three weeks, keep the roots wrapped and moist in a cool, frost-free place such as a shed or garage. For longer delays, "heel in" the roses by digging a temporary trench, laying the roots in at an angle, and covering them with soil until you're ready to plant properly. Never let the roots dry out or freeze. Should I use mycorrhizal fungi when planting roses? It isn't essential, but many gardeners find it helps, particularly on poorer soils or when replanting where roses have grown before. Mycorrhizal fungi form a beneficial relationship with the rose's roots, improving the plant's ability to take up water and nutrients as it establishes. Apply directly to the roots or root ball at planting time, following the product instructions.