Roses are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soils, but for optimal growth, they need deep soil with adequate drainage. This will help them to develop large and healthy root systems that can reach deep into the ground for access to essential nutrients.
Good soil should have a mix of air, water, minerals, and organic matter that allows for strong root growth. It should be loose enough to allow water to move freely through it and ensure the roots don’t stay wet or dry out too fast.
Organic matter is crucial as it helps improve the structure of the soil by increasing its ability to hold onto moisture and provides beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms with an energy source. To do this, try adding compost or well-rotted manure.
Before planting — whether you’re using beds or containers — make sure you mix in plenty of fertilizers or slow-release fertilizers that provide long-term benefits to your roses. If planted in pots or grow bags, use specially formulated potting compost instead of garden soil, as this will contain more nutrients for rapid rose growth.
Avoid heavy clay soils, as these take a longer time to warm up in spring and regain their balance after heavy rains. Also, limit very sandy soils as these can quickly drain out all nutrients from the plants, leaving them starved for food.
For potted roses, make sure to repot every two years to provide them an environment where new shoots can flourish, and old leaves get recycled back into the earth. Doing this also adds additional richness, which helps your roses thrive year after year!