What is Cane Dieback on Roses?
A new month means a new newsletter theme, and I'm so excited to focus on first-year bare root rose care. Spring has arrived, and the farm is coming to life with warmer temperatures. This week hit a delightful 75 degrees! Our newly planted bare root roses are thriving, showing over two inches of fresh leaf growth in just a few days. It's shaping up to be an exciting season for roses, and we're ready to hit the ground running!
If you're just tuning in, you can catch my bare root rose planting tips here. This month we'll be covering cane dieback, the right fertilizers to use and when, what to expect from your new rose's growth the first year and why yearly soil testing is so essential for long-term success of you rose plant.
This week to kick off our monthly series, we're focusing on cane dieback—a common question in our customer service inbox this time of year. If you've recently planted bare root roses and noticed some dieback on the canes, don't panic! (If you haven't you can still grab some for your garden here. We just added some great new 30% off Bundles to the shop this week.) This is a completely normal part of the establishment process for young roses. Understanding why it happens and how to manage it will help set your roses up for long-term success.
Dieback refers to the drying out and browning of the tips of rose canes, often occurring after planting. It can range from minor tip dieback to the loss of entire canes. While it may seem alarming, this process is simply the plant's way of adjusting to its new environment and prioritizing root development over top growth.
Several factors contribute to dieback in first-year bare root roses. One key reason is the root-to-top growth imbalance. When a bare root rose is dug up for sale, it loses many of its fine feeder roots. Once planted, the rose redirects its energy to root establishment, sometimes sacrificing cane growth in the process. Environmental stress, such as fluctuating temperatures, strong winds, or sudden weather changes, can also impact newly planted roses. Without a fully developed root system to support new growth, some cane tissue naturally dies back.
Additionally, improper watering—either too much or too little—can affect the plant's ability to sustain its existing canes. Consistently moist (but not soggy) soil encourages strong root development and minimizes excessive dieback. Lastly, normal cane pruning response plays a role, as many bare root roses are pruned before shipment. Sometimes, the rose will naturally shed weak or damaged cane tips as it adjusts to its new home. It's the rose taking care of itself through a selective amputation to preserve the parts it needs to grow and thrive.
While some dieback is inevitable, there are a few ways to support your rose through its first year. The most important thing is to be patient and allow the plant time to establish itself. The priority in the first season is root development, which may mean less top growth. Prune carefully once new growth emerges, trimming back dead or brown sections to healthy green tissue. Mulch and water wisely, keeping soil evenly moist but not overly wet, and apply a layer of mulch (avoid applying bulky wood or bark chips - loose mulch and compost are best) to retain moisture and protect roots. Providing protection, such as using row covers or windbreaks, can also shield young plants from harsh conditions, especially if planting early in the winter/spring season when weather fluctuates and cold temperatures are still lingering.
Most roses bounce back beautifully by the summer growing season, producing strong new growth and healthier canes. The key is to give them time, proper care, and a little patience. By understanding the natural process of dieback, you'll be well-equipped to support your roses in their journey to becoming thriving, resilient plants in your garden.
This Week's Action Step: Take some time to carefully monitor your newly planted bare root roses for any signs of dieback. If you see it, don't wait—trim it away right down to the healthy green cane. Do a little sleuthing too if you are experiencing dieback to try and remedy the cause - is it lack of water, exposure (or prior exposure) to extreme cold temperatures or something else. If you haven't planted your roses yet, add this vital step to your care checklist so you'll be prepared to monitor for dieback after your bare root roses have been planted. Don't forget to keep notes in your notebook or Notion garden journal so you can track your rose's progress.
Next week, I'll be back answering one of your most common questions—what fertilizer to apply to your bare root roses and when. This one is always a hot topic so stay tuned, and as always, happy gardening!
THE LIST: THINGS I'M LOVING THIS WEEK
- New book alert. Marryn at The Farmhouse Flower Farm has just released her BOOK Sweet Pea School: Growing & Arranging the Garden's Most Romantic Blooms. If you are a sweet pea lover this is a must add to your book collection.
- Immediately hit add to cart on this spring/summer dress. Perfect for your spring BREAK plans. Usually by the time I get around shopping for a seasonal wardrobe refresh everything is sold out. This year I am shopping early!
- I've already started shopping for Easter basket goodies, and my kids couldn't be more excited! They're huge basketball fans and absolutely love collecting these bobblehead player toys. It's adorable to watch them create fantasy GAMES and bring the players to life. The thrill of discovering which surprise player is hidden in each ball just adds to the fun.
- This is my 10 year old to a T because he is the most JOYOUS person I know. Also emergency confetti is always a good idea. We should be celebrating life's little wins more!
- Sunday Self Care: Lavender bubble bath. NEED I say more!
CHEERS,
JOIN THE FUN!
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Photos by: Jill Carmel Photography
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