Beginners Guide to planting roses

Not only are roses adored worldwide, but they symbolise romance, love and passion. Add interest to your garden by growing some for yourself.

If you have not planted roses before, speak to your local florist or garden centre to establish which plant would be best suited to your soil type and climate. They may advise that you invest in a disease resistant type as these will require less maintenance and are ideal for beginners to grow.

For roses to grow to their best potential ensure you choose a spot which has early morning sun and a further six hours of light throughout the rest of the day. The best soil to grow roses, is well drained and with a PH balance of 5.5 to 7.0. (If you are unsure of the PH reading of your soil, you will be able to buy a testing kit from Keen Gardener.)

Enrich you soil by adding lime or manure as this will nourish the rose's roots.

Choose an area of your garden which has the best PH level and plenty of space for your plants to flourish. Rose plants will not grow if they are planted in an over crowded or enclosed area.

The best time to plant your roses is in spring. Make sure you dig a large hole at least twice the size of the root ball to ensure an easy planting process. Remember if you plant your roses too close together their growth will be restricted. Poor circulation and lack of space can also result in fungal infections and disease amongst your plants.

Within the first month you will need to water your rose plants on a regular basis, (each time the first two inches of the soil becomes dry). After this time a good soaking of your rose bed every fortnight should be adequate and keep your plants healthy.

If you are concerned your roses may be lacking in nutrients, add mulch around the base of the plants. Not only will this increase temperature and moisture but will also keep your plants healthy. Mulch can be added three months after your roses have been planted into your garden.