How to Grow Roses in Containers in a Cold Climate

Growing roses can be a delightful and fulfilling experience, and your journey with them adds a wonderful personal touch! Here’s how we managed to plant own-root roses successfully in zone 5b, along with some tips for others looking to do the same.

We ordered own-root roses from @heirloomroses. Own-root roses rather than those grafted onto hardier rootstocks. Own-root roses are more likely to survive harsh winters and will regrow from their own roots if dieback occurs during severe cold spells.

Additionally, consider varieties specifically recommended for your specific zone. We chose zone 4-5, as they are better suited for the colder temperatures.

Since the ground was already frozen when they arrived, we decided to keep them indoors throughout the winter. To your surprise, they began to bloom indoors, showcasing their resilience!

However, the best time to plant own-root roses is primarily in early spring. This timing allows the roses to establish their roots before the heat of summer arrives. Specifically, aim to plant them from late March to early May, once th e threat of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up sufficiently.

We transplanted the roses outdoors by May. The transition went smoothly, thanks to their vigorous growth during the winter months. This is a key advantage of planting own-root roses as they tend to adapt well when moved outside.

Soil preparation: Roses thrive in well draining soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, amend your soil with compost to improve its fertility and drainage. Avoid using potting soil mix that contains granular fertilizer. Granular fertilizer isn’t ideal for transitioning rose plants, it can get hot and burn the roots especially for containers.

Container size: 10 gal containers will give the rose plants a good buffer/insolation for roots.

Drainage: use soil with a high organic content and good drainage. Containers need to have good drainage as well.

Planting technique: When planting, dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the root system without crowding. Place the rose in the hole so that the graft union (if applicable) is just above the soil line. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.

Watering practices: the watering needs of roses are much different than a lot of other plants. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, is crucial for the health of your roses. Fertilize them in early spring with a balanced rose fertilizer to promote growth and blooming.

Use proper fertilizer: Water insoluble nutrients paired with high microbial nutrients are best at the start for own root roses. Try liquid fish fertilizer.

Preparing for Winter: As November rolls around again, we prepared our roses for the cold months ahead. We cut back the stems and added compost and mulch around the base of the plants. This mulch acts as insulation, protecting the roses throughout winter and ensuring they will thrive again come spring. In particularly harsh winters, consider wrapping the plants or using protective coverings to shield them from extreme cold.

Deadheading:  Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak wood and encourage new growth. This technique also provided us with more rose petals to dry for tea. 

Incorporating flowers into edible gardens not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also plays a vital role in attracting beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These pollinators are crucial for the health of your garden, as they help improve the yield of your fruits and vegetables. 

For gardeners like us in zone 5b, employing the right care techniques can lead to a flourishing garden filled with vibrant blooms alongside your edible crops. This combination offers an opportunity to create unique culinary delights that elevate your kitchen creations.

One of our rewarding experiences involved saving and drying rose petals from our garden to make a fragrant tea. This simple act not only enhances your gardening experience but also allows you to enjoy the fruits of your labor in a delicious way. 

There’s something truly gratifying about watching your flowers flourish and then transforming them into something delightful for your taste buds!

Chai rose tea

follow this simple recipe:

1. Start with hot water as your base.
2. Add rose water (if available) for an aromatic essence.
3. Stir in milk to give the tea a creamy texture.
4. Incorporate dried rose petals for floral notes.
5. Add a few pods of cardamom for a hint of spice.
6. Finally, include your choice of black tea to provide a robust flavour.

This combination results in a wonderfully delightful beverage that not only warms the soul but also serves as a beautiful reminder of the flowers you’ve nurtured in your garden. Enjoy the process and the rewards that come with it!

Hope you get to add roses into your food jungle too!