Planting Roses In The Summer? Here's What You Should Know First

There really is nothing quite like the scent of roses drifting through the air on a warm summer's day, especially when it's coming from your own garden. So if you're tempted to add more roses to your yard during the summer months, you're not alone. But while the season may feel like the perfect time to plant, summer isn't always ideal for getting roses started. Although it can be challenging, it's not entirely impossible to plant roses from June to August. To help your rose garden thrive in summer, you'll just need to provide extra attention and use the right approach. 

Timing is everything when it comes to planting roses, and the best season for getting them in the ground depends on the form they come in. Bare-root roses, which are sold without soil, are best planted in winter to early spring when the soil is more likely to be moist. These conditions give them time to establish strong roots before the stress of summer heat kicks in, which can lead to poor growth and dried-out roots. Once the summer sun is in full swing, bare-root roses are no longer a good option. At that point, container-grown roses become your best bet. Because container roses are sold actively growing in soil, they can be planted year-round. These plants have roots that are already established, which makes transplanting them into your flowerbeds or into a larger pot much easier, even in the height of summer.

If you already have your container-grown roses ready to go, then you can start by picking a cooler part of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, so the plant isn't going straight into the heat. Before planting, water the rose thoroughly, ensuring the roots are fully hydrated.

When it's time to plant, dig a hole that's about twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Mix in some compost with your soil to help hold moisture and give the roots a nutrient boost. Summer heat can cause soil to dry out quickly, so to keep things cool and help the soil stay moist, spread a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, and make sure you water it regularly and thoroughly.

The best place to plant garden roses is somewhere swathed in sun, as roses generally need plenty of light (at least four hours of direct sunlight is recommended). They can cope with dappled and light shade too, which may be more beneficial if you live in a particularly hot or dry area. After planting, ensure you keep an eye on your roses by checking the soil often and watering it deeply when it starts to dry out. With a little attention, growing beautiful roses should be straightforward, even in the height of summer.

When it comes to planting roses in the summer, the type you choose can have a big impact on how well they handle the heat and settle into your flowerbeds. To give your roses the best shot at thriving, go for varieties labeled as heat-tolerant, as these are bred to withstand higher temperatures. It also helps to look for plants with well-established root systems and sturdy foliage, which can reduce moisture loss.

Shrub rose cultivars like 'Knock Out' are known for their ability to perform well in the heat while staying relatively low-maintenance. Other great options for summer planting include floribunda and climbing roses, which both handle summer heat while bringing vibrant colors to your yard. Floribundas tend to bloom continuously and hold their color well, even during the hottest parts of the season. Climbing roses, such as 'Peggy Martin,' thrive in warm weather and add a cottagecore-style charm to your garden.

Container-grown roses are the safest bet during the warmer months, especially as they should already be in flower if you buy them in summer. With the right pick and a little hot weather care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful blooms all season long.