| Tips for Growing Roses in North Alabama Site Selection: Select a location with at least five to six hours of sun each day, good ventilation, good drainage and away from trees and roots. Soil Preparation: Dig out solid to depth of about two feet. mix equal parts of top soil, peat and course sand. Blend in a one-inch depth of organic compost or potting soil Soil testing should show an acidity level (pH) of 6 to 6.5 Planting: If planting bare root roses, soak roots over night in water. Prune any damaged or broken roots, and prune other roots one to three inches. Dig hole 18 inches deep and form a mound or cone in the bottom. Place plant in hold and position roots over cone of soil so they flare evenly downward and outward. Hold plant so the crown/graft is one to two inches above ground level. Fill in soil over roots, firming with hand. At three quarters full pour in a pail of water and allow to soak, and then repeat with another pail. Finish filling with soil and then cover crown with relatively dry light soil or sand to be left until leaves are well developed (about 2-3 weeks); then wash soil from crown being careful not to damage plant. If planting potted or boxed roses, cut away or tap container to remove the plant from the container. Plant in hole as described above slightly larger than the original container. |