Getting Started with Backyard Roses

There are few things as delightful as sitting in your backyard in view of the rose bushes that you have tenderly cared for. 

If you are thinking about planting roses in your yard, there are a few things you should know before you begin to make sure that they thrive! 

Backyard Rose Varieties

Most people know that there are different rose varieties but probably can’t name them on sight. But if you are going to plant some rose bushes in your backyard, it is important to know the varieties that are available to you that will thrive in your region. 

Hybrid Tea Roses

Hybrid tea roses are one of the most famous varieties for growing in your yard. There are many types within the variety, and more are being bred all the time. 

These long-stemmed, many-petaled roses are likely familiar to everyone due to their widespread popularity.

Shrub Roses

As the name implies, shrub roses have larger foliage that spreads more widely than most varieties. These are a good choice for larger yards with plenty of green space since shrub roses can spread between five and 15 feet in any direction.

Climbing Roses

Climbing roses are another popular variety and are extremely striking. These roses can be trained to grow up a wall, lattice, porch, or other structure. 

While they need a bit more attention — they need to be tied to grow up a vertical space — most climbing roses do well in colder climates. 

Where to Plant (Hint: Roses aren’t just for the backyard!) 

Before you grab a shovel and start digging, you also need to consider where roses will grow best in your backyard. Roses have the reputation of being difficult to grow. With that said, the simple secret comes down to planting them in the right spot. 

So what do roses need to help them thrive? 

The three biggest requirements come down to sun, soil, and space. 

Sun

Roses need full sun to thrive, which means they need a minimum of six to eight hours a day. More sunlight is even better. 

Choose a spot that is far enough away from any other plants or structures. This will ensure that your roses have optimal access to the sun and don’t get blocked by other objects.

Soil

Roses can be particular about the type of soil they need. For the best results, find a spot where the soil has good drainage. You never want to drown the roots of your rose bushes, which can cause them to become diseased. 

It is a good idea to enrich the soil, especially if it has more sand or clay content than is ideal. You can enrich the soil with commercial topsoil, fertilizer, or regular compost.

Space

Roses tend to sprawl as they grow, and they require plenty of space to thrive. This is another good reason to plant them far enough away from anything else in your yard. 

Giving the roses adequate room ensures that the roots can gather all the nutrients from the soil while the flowers and foliage are nourished by the sunlight. 

What Care Do Rose Bushes Need? 

Roses have a reputation for being high-maintenance, and in some ways, that is true. One of the most important things to consider is water. Give roses about an inch of water every week throughout their growing season. Rather than spraying water over the top of the bushes, you’ll need to water down by the roots to keep them optimally hydrated. 

On the other hand, make sure you avoid overwatering them. Roses are prone to developing fungal diseases, and this likelihood increases if the root systems are too wet. 

Make sure to fertilize your roses annually in the spring. This is also the time to prune your rose bushes, ideally right after the first buds appear in the spring. Pruning might take some practice, especially as you learn to target the less healthy branches.

Growing Zones

There is a wide range of acceptable growing zones for roses. This depends on certain factors like the variety of roses. Some, like climbing roses, usually thrive in colder climates, while others need a much more temperate atmosphere. 

Hybrid tea roses, for example, can generally grow safely in any zone between USDA zones three through eleven. Before you choose a variety of rose bush to plant, make sure to check that it can grow well in your zone. You can further protect rose bushes by mulching them during the winter.

Getting Started With Backyard Roses

Roses are a beautiful addition to any yard or garden. Though they are often said to be difficult to grow, this is too simplistic. 

If you choose the right variety and plant it in the right spot, your backyard roses are likely to thrive with steady care and attention, ensuring that you can enjoy them for many years to come.