Rose Care Guide

Posted on May 28, 2026

If you love roses but are intimidated by their reputation for being hard to maintain, let us help! With enough sun and proper care, you can enjoy their beauty all season long. Keep reading for our tips on how to make caring for roses simple!

1. PLANT IN FULL SUN

The most important rule when it comes to roses is to plant them in full sun. There are a few varieties that are more shade-tolerant than others; however, you will always get the most blooms in 6 or more hours of sunlight.

2. waterING TIPS

  • Follow the rule of 3’s! Water thoroughly three times a week for the first three weeks, and then switch to once a week.
  • Let them dry out well in between
  • Roses like to be well-drained. Always avoid planting in boggy spots and downspouts.
  • Avoid overhead watering. Getting foliage wet increases the likelihood of disease and other problems!

3. Don’t Skip the Fertilizer

Roses are heavy bloomers, which uses up a lot of their energy! Fertilize your roses monthly from May through September using a slow-release fertilizer, such as Espoma Organic Rose-Tone.

4. GET AHEAD OF PESTS & DISEASES

Generally, roses can be magnets for disease and insects. This is why protection is an absolute must for all roses, especially if you have a known problem in your yard!

Use either BioAdvanced All-in-One Rose & Flower Spray or Captain Jack’s Rose Rx 4-1 (organic option) every 1-2 weeks during the growing season to treat or prevent common diseases, insects, and mites. Dealing with deer or voles? Try Repels-All Animal Repellent, and I Must Garden Mole & Vole Repellent.

5. Deadheading & Pruning

As you start to see blooms, it’s important to “deadhead” them as the flowers die to encourage them to re-bloom. If this is a bit too much maintenance for you, there are self-cleaning varieties to choose from, such as The Knock Out® Family!

You can also trim off any diseased or dead sections as needed. Be sure to avoid heavy pruning until late winter/early spring after your last frost date!

Not sure what type of rose would be ideal for your yard? Check out Which Type of Rose is Best for You to learn more!