How to Grow Roses and Appreciate Their Legendary Legacy

Learning how to grow roses connects you to one of the world's most beloved and historic flowers. Roses are more than just a garden classic — they've symbolized love, beauty, and resilience for thousands of years. With the right care, they offer lush blooms, sweet fragrances, and enduring charm in any landscape.

Whether you're a novice or experienced grower, this guide covers everything you need to know: from rose history, to planting tips, to preventing common pests and diseases.

The History of Roses: From Ancient Symbols to Global Favorites

Roses are native to regions across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Archaeological records suggest that roses have existed for over 35 million years, with cultivation dating back at least 5,000 years in ancient China and Persia.

Throughout history, roses have been treasured for their fragrance, beauty, and medicinal uses. In ancient Rome, they were used in festivals, perfumes, and even as currency. During the Middle Ages, roses became associated with royalty and religious symbolism — the War of the Roses in England being a famous example.

By the 18th century, crossbreeding and hybridization took rose cultivation to new heights, producing varieties in every color and form imaginable. Today, with over 30,000 named rose varieties, gardeners worldwide celebrate the flower's timeless appeal by learning how to grow roses in gardens, containers, and greenhouses.

Growing Roses: What Every Gardener Should Know

Roses may have a reputation for being fussy, but modern varieties are often hardy and low-maintenance with the proper planting and care. Here's how to ensure your roses thrive.

When and Where to Plant Roses

Spring or fall are the best times to plant roses, depending on your climate. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, as roses need sun to bloom vigorously and resist disease.

Soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Raised beds or mounds can help improve drainage, especially in areas with heavy clay soil.

Soil Preparation and Planting Depth

Before planting, mix compost or aged manure into the soil. Roses prefer a pH around 6.0 to 6.5.

Plant bare-root roses with the crown (where stems meet roots) at soil level in warm climates, or slightly below soil level in colder zones. Potted roses should be planted at the same depth as in their container.

Space plants 2 to 3 feet apart to promote airflow and reduce disease risk — an essential part of knowing how to grow roses successfully.

Watering and Fertilizing

Water deeply at the base 1–2 times a week, depending on rainfall. Avoid overhead watering to minimize leaf disease.

Feed roses with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or rose-specific mix) starting in spring and continue every 4–6 weeks through midsummer. Stop feeding 6 weeks before your expected first frost to prevent tender new growth.

Pruning and Maintenance

Prune in early spring when buds begin to swell. Remove dead or weak wood and shape the plant for airflow and bloom production. Pruning encourages healthier, more prolific flowering.

Common Rose Diseases and Pests

While roses can face challenges, proper care helps prevent most issues. Here's what to watch for:

Black Spot

A fungal disease causing black spots on leaves, leading to yellowing and drop.
Prevention: Ensure good air circulation, water at the base, and remove infected leaves. Use preventive fungicides if needed.

Powdery Mildew

White, powdery coating on leaves and buds.
Prevention: Plant in full sun, avoid overcrowding, and water early in the day.

Aphids

Small insects that cluster on new growth, sucking sap and causing distortion.
Solution: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce ladybugs.

Japanese Beetles

These pests skeletonize leaves and damage flowers.
Solution: Hand-pick early in the morning or use targeted traps away from rose beds.

Proactive care is essential in learning how to grow roses successfully and maintaining plant health all season long.

Winter Protection for Roses

While roses are perennials, many need protection in colder climates.

• Mulch heavily around the base with straw or leaves in late fall.
• In zones 5 and below, mound soil around the base and use rose cones or burlap for added insulation.
• Water well before the ground freezes to support root hydration.

Fun Facts About Roses

• Roses are the most popular cut flower worldwide, symbolizing everything from love to remembrance.
• Some rose varieties are edible, used in teas, jams, and syrups.
• The world's oldest known living rose is over 1,000 years old, growing on a cathedral wall in Germany.

Explore More with BloomHub

Now that you know how to grow roses, explore rare varieties, buy from trusted growers, or sell your own blooms on BloomHub's marketplace. We connect flower lovers and gardeners across the U.S. with fresh flowers, fair pricing, and a thriving community.

Visit the BloomHub Journal for more flower guides, tips, and gardening inspiration!