When to plant Roses in Durham

Plant bare-root roses around 5th November - 29th January 2027 in well-prepared, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil. Spread the roots out, set the graft union just at or slightly below soil level, and firm in well. Cut back the main stems by about half to an outward-facing bud to help the plant establish, then water thoroughly straight after planting.

Keep the soil evenly moist through 5th November - 26th February 2027 while the roots settle. Water deeply at the base during dry spells, rather than little and often, and keep a mulch away from the stems.

From 9th July 2027 to 16th October 2027, remove faded flowers back to a strong leaf pair. This keeps repeat-flowering roses producing new buds for longer and helps keep the plant tidy.

Feed and water from 9th July 2027 through 6th August 2027 to support repeat flowering. Use a balanced rose feed or general-purpose fertiliser, then water it in well and keep the area around the plant clear of fallen leaves.

Prune around 24th February - 26th March 2027 before strong growth starts. Remove dead, damaged and crossing shoots, then shorten the remaining stems to an outward-facing bud to keep an open shape and improve air flow.

After leaf drop around 2nd October - 15th November 2027, clear away fallen leaves and any diseased material from under the plant. Do not cut the shrub to the ground, just remove weak or crossing growth and leave the framework in place.