HOW TO PLANT BARE ROOT ROSES
This week has been better than the last for me—how about you? It felt so good to spend time outside on farm projects away from the chaos of the world. That's the beauty of gardens and farms—they ground us in a way that's hard to describe. I spent time on the farm getting our roses dormant-pruned and wrapping up the final preparations for our annual Bare Root Rose Collection launch.
I can't believe it's almost here! Our 2025 Bare Root Rose Collection launches this Wednesday, January 22nd, at 9 a.m. PT. If you haven't already, you can preview the collection now to start building your wish list. Shipping begins the week of January 27th, so if you're in a warm zone, planting season is just around the corner!
I know a good part of the country will be experiencing abnormally cold temperatures this week. If you want to protect your roses you can read more on my recommendations in a past newsletter. I also gathered all of my recommended freeze protection supplies on one handy list too. If you have questions about protecting your roses reply to this email. I'm happy to help you get them through this cold snap.
Last week, we talked all about sizing and grading bare root roses. (Missed it? You can catch up here.) Understanding what makes a high-quality rose is so important, but once those beauties arrive, what's next? This week, we're rolling up our sleeves and diving into how to plant bare root roses. If you've never planted a bare root rose—or if the process feels intimidating—I promise it's easier than it looks. With a little care and preparation, you'll set your roses up for success. I'll guide you through the entire process, step by step, so you'll feel confident and ready to grow.
Preparing the Rose
- Remove the rose from its packaging.
- When you first get your roses, they may look lifeless to you—don't worry, they're simply dormant.
- Trim any damaged or broken canes or roots.
- Rehydrate the rose by submerging the roots in water for 12–24 hours before planting.
Planting in the Ground
- Scout the right spot: Look for a sunny location with well-drained soil that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight.
- Dig your hole: Aim for 12–18 inches wide and deep—about the size of the root structure.
- Prepare the soil: Planting in native soil is fine however if you want to amend use a ratio of 1/3 high quality compost to 2/3 native soil.
- Shape a soil cone: At the center of the hole, form a small cone of soil to support the roots like an upside-down martini glass.
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Position the rose:
- Grafted roses: Plant the bud union 2–3 inches below the ground in colder climates and 1–2 inches above in warmer zones.
- Own-root roses: Plant to the base of the canes.
- Give your rose a boost: Sprinkle the roots with mycorrhizae.
- Backfill the hole: Cover with soil, gently pressing to remove air pockets (but avoid breaking the roots).
- Mulch: Add a layer of compost or mulch over the base of the plant to retain moisture and protect roots.
Planting in a Pot
- Select a large, sturdy pot: At least 16–18 inches in diameter and depth to allow for root growth.
- Choose quality soil: Use well-draining potting mix and avoid garden soil.
- Ensure drainage: Make sure the pot has proper drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
- Follow the same steps as planting in the ground but adjust the soil level to ensure healthy root development inside the container.
- Potting tip: Roses in pots tend to dry out faster, so keep the soil consistently moist without water logging. Read more of my tips for pot planting here.
What if you can't plant your bare root rose right away? Roses from big box stores and nursery are packed with saw dust around the roots while some from mail order nurseries usually arrive moist in a plastic bag. The key now is keeping them cool, moist, and ready to wake up when you have time to plant. I recommend planting as soon as you can and store for no more than ten days. If extended storage is required try the “heeling in” method for you roses until planting.
- Open the package immediately. Check your roses for any damage, and contact the supplier if needed.
- Wrap them back up. Rewrap the rose in the plastic bag it came in, ensuring the roots stay moist or cover back with sawdust.
- Choose a cool, dark storage spot. Ideal choices are a garage, basement, or other location with temperatures between 35–42°F. Avoid places where they might freeze or get too warm.
- Stay vigilant. Check daily to ensure the roots are moist (use a mist setting on your garden hose if needed) and watch for mold or fungus. A little extra attention here will go a long way!
This week's action step is to prep your supplies so you're ready to plant your bare root roses when arrive. Here's what you'll need:
Rose Gauntlet Garden Gloves
Spade
Bypass Clippers
Mycorrhizae
Rake (optional)
5 Gallon Bucket or other Tub For Soaking Roots
Aged Compost
Check your supply inventory: Missing anything? Here are my favorite bare root rose planting supplies.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don't worry! Start with the basics and check out my blog posts: How To Plant Bare Root Roses and How to Plant Bare Root Roses In Pots for more information and step-by-step photos of the planting process.
Next week, we'll be tackling common bare root rose planting mistakes—so you can avoid any pitfalls and give your roses their best chance to thrive. Until then, gather your supplies and dream of those first blooms.
THE LIST: THINGS I'M LOVING THIS WEEK
- This week, I'm sharing another GoFundMe to SUPPORT a victim of the devastating Alta Dena fire in Southern California. Noemi, a cherished member of Team Menagerie for over eight years, is deeply affected by this tragedy, as her sister-in-law's home was destroyed in the fire. Her niece, Daisy, who lived in the home with her husband and parents, has set up a GoFundMe to help the Trejo family with their immediate needs as they work to rebuild their lives. Tragically, not only did they lose their home, but Noemi's sister-in-law also lost her livelihood, as she ran a small daycare from the house. If you're able, even sparing the cost of a cup of coffee this week could make a meaningful difference for this family. You can learn more about their story and watch an interview with the family on the LA Univision station to see the extent of the devastation. I can personally vouch for Noemi and the Trejo family, and your generosity in helping them during this incredibly difficult time means the world to all of us. Thank you for considering a donation, no matter the size.
- Needed some ZEN in my office this week so I had this candle on repeat. It's rose scent is so soothing.
- I picked up this CUTE Valentine's Day craft for my kids this week.
- Speaking of Valentine's Day - preview one of my favorite bare root rose LIMITED edition bundles I created just for the occasion. What better way to say love then with roses that bloom year round in the garden. Available Jan 22nd at 9am PT.
- Loving this heart shaped TWIST on a classic button up shirt.
HAVE A BEAUTIFUL WEEK,
JOIN THE FUN!
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You can also find me on Instagram for more rose garden inspiration and exclusive behind-the-scenes moments. You can check out my favorite rose varieties and browse garden supplies at the Menagerie Shop! I also have all of things I love for my home, garden and life in easy to find collections on my Amazon Storefront and my new ShopMy Page.
Photos by: Jill Carmel Photography
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