COMING UP ROSES

Plant bare-rooted roses now for a floral flourish in spring

Why we love them

Roses are one of the world’s most loved flowering plants. They bloom from spring to autumn, transforming the garden into a vision of floral romance, and often smell great, too.

What types are there?

Shrub, climbing, bush, miniature and groundcover or carpet roses are just some of the varieties. Standard ‘lollipop’ forms are also available – usually bush roses grafted onto an upright stem.

Where to grow them

Roses will grow in most climates – less well in very hot and humid areas, but some will flourish in these zones. Choose an area with full sun and ensure soil is well-draining and enriched with organic matter, like manure and compost.

How to care for them

Most roses should be pruned heavily in winter to encourage an open crown. Carpet roses only require a light trim (or leave unpruned). Spring-flowering climbing roses, such as banksia, should be cut back hard when flowers finish but repeat-flowering versions such as ‘Pierre de Ronsard’ and ‘Climbing Iceberg’ are pruned in July, like most others. Feed regularly with a rose-specific fertiliser once buds form, to encourage prolific blooms. Watch for blackspot and spray with a suitable fungicide if required.

FOR MORE PLANTS, VISIT

bunnings.com.au/plants Fragrant

(‘Mister Lincoln’) A classic romantic red rose, this hybrid tea rose is renowned for its heady fragrance.

Climbing

(‘Climbing Iceberg’) A profuse bloomer, this nearly thornless climber is best trained up an arch or trellis for support.

Shrub

(‘Just Joey’) Large apricot flowers adorn this shrub rose. Prune heavily (about one-third of the canes) in winter.

Cut flower

(‘Double Delight’) With long stems and a sweet scent, the strawberry-and-cream stunner is great for vases.