After Purchase Guide

Rose Plant Care Guide

Bought a rose in a pot? Follow this guide to help it settle in, grow strongly, and produce beautiful flowers.
Not Sure? Follow This
UnpackRemove packaging and water if compost feels dry
SunMost roses grow best in a sunny position
Plant SoonPlant out or repot as soon as possible
WaterKeep evenly moist while establishing
FeedFeed during the growing season for best flowering
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Garden Roses

Bush & Shrub Roses

Floribunda, Hybrid Tea, Shrub Roses

What to do after purchase

  • Unpack your rose as soon as it arrives
  • Water if the compost feels dry
  • Keep in a bright, sheltered outdoor spot if you cannot plant straight away
  • Plant into the garden at the same depth as in the pot
  • Water well after planting and keep moist while it establishes

Best conditions

  • Full sun is ideal
  • Rich, well-drained soil
  • Good airflow around the plant
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Climbing

Climbing & Rambling Roses

Climbing Roses, Rambling Roses

What to do after purchase

  • Choose a sunny spot with support such as a trellis, arch, or wall wires
  • Plant as soon as possible so roots can establish well
  • Water thoroughly after planting
  • Tie in new stems gently as the plant grows
  • Keep the soil moist in dry weather during the first season

Best conditions

  • Sun or light shade
  • Fertile, well-drained soil
  • Strong support for stems
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Containers

Roses for Pots & Patios

Patio Roses, Miniature Roses, Container Roses

What to do after purchase

  • You can keep these in a pot or move them into a larger container
  • Choose a pot with drainage holes
  • Use fresh compost if repotting
  • Water regularly, especially in warm weather
  • Feed during the growing season to encourage repeat flowering

Best conditions

  • Sunny position
  • Consistent watering
  • Good drainage is essential
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Feature Plants

Standard Roses

Standard Roses, Tree Roses

What to do after purchase

  • Keep the plant upright and sheltered after delivery
  • Plant or repot as soon as possible
  • Use a sturdy stake if needed for support
  • Water well after planting
  • Check regularly in windy weather while it settles in

Best conditions

  • Sunny, sheltered position
  • Good airflow
  • Support if exposed to wind
General Care

What to Expect Over Time

Helpful for most potted roses

What to do after purchase

  • Your rose may need a little time to settle after moving
  • Some flowers may fade quickly after delivery, which is normal
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers
  • Feed during the growing season for stronger flowering
  • Prune at the appropriate time of year depending on the rose type

Best conditions

  • Most roses perform best in sun
  • Regular watering helps new plants establish
  • Healthy soil leads to stronger growth and more flowers