When to plant Roses in London

Plant bare-root roses around 30th November - 23rd February 2027 in well-prepared, free-draining soil. Only plant if the ground is open, not frozen or wet. Spread the roots out. Set the graft union just at or slightly below soil level. Firm in well. Cut back the main stems by about half to an outward-facing bud. Water in well. They flower next summer.

During the first growing season after planting, keep the soil evenly moist from 18th April 2027 to 27th October 2027. Water deeply at the base in dry spells and keep mulch clear of the stems.

From 19th May 2027 to 10th November 2027, remove faded flowers back to a strong leaf pair. This keeps repeat-flowering roses producing new buds.

From 21st March 2027 through 18th April 2027, give a balanced rose feed or general-purpose fertiliser. Water it in well.

• A second feed after the first flush of flowers helps repeat flowering.

Prune around 19th January - 18th February 2027, before strong growth starts. Do not prune into frozen wood. Remove dead, damaged, and crossing shoots. Shorten the remaining stems to an outward-facing bud.

After leaf drop around 27th October - 10th December 2027, clear fallen leaves and any diseased material from under the plant. Do not cut the shrub to the ground. Leave the framework in place.