How to Grow Rose
Shrub
Roses bring fragrance, colour and structure to British gardens, from compact bush roses to generous climbers and ramblers. Hybrid teas, floribundas and shrub roses suit many spaces, while a well-chosen variety rewards even a small garden with flowers, hips and a wonderfully traditional feel.
Planting
Plant bare-root roses between November and March, whenever the soil is workable and not waterlogged or frozen. Container-grown roses can be planted at most times of year, but avoid spells of drought or frost. Choose an open site with at least four hours of sun, good air movement and fertile, well-drained soil. Dig a generous hole, set the graft union just below soil level, firm gently, water thoroughly and mulch around, keeping mulch clear of stems.
Care
Water newly planted roses regularly during dry weather. In spring, feed with a suitable rose fertiliser and top up an organic mulch to conserve moisture and enrich the soil. Prune most bush and shrub roses in late winter, removing dead, damaged and crossing growth. Deadhead repeat-flowering types promptly. Choose disease-resistant, RHS Award of Garden Merit varieties where possible, and clear away fallen leaves to reduce blackspot and rust.
Bloom time
Most roses flower from June into September, with repeat-flowering varieties continuing into October in a mild southern autumn. Ramblers usually give one abundant flush in June or July, while many climbers and modern bush roses produce several waves through summer.
Garden uses
Use bush roses in mixed borders, rose beds or large containers, combining them with hardy geraniums, salvias and ornamental grasses. Climbers can soften walls, arches and pergolas, while ramblers suit larger trees or fences. Fragrant varieties make excellent cut flowers. Single, open-centred blooms can support pollinators and are worth seeking through RHS Plants for Pollinators.
Tips
Give roses room rather than crowding them against fences or neighbouring plants, as airflow helps leaves dry quickly. Watch for greenfly, powdery mildew, blackspot and rust, then remove affected foliage and improve growing conditions. Water the soil rather than the leaves. When planting where roses grew before, replace as much soil as practical or choose another position.
Growing Rose: frequently asked questions
How do I grow rose in the UK?
Plant bare-root roses between November and March, whenever the soil is workable and not waterlogged or frozen.
When does rose flower?
Most roses flower from June into September, with repeat-flowering varieties continuing into October in a mild southern autumn.
How do I care for rose?
Water newly planted roses regularly during dry weather.
General guidance for UK gardens. Timing and hardiness vary by region and season; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise for your area. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.