Roses are timeless and elegant flowers that can thrive and bloom magnificently in terracotta pots. Pots can bring an unrivalled adaptability to your garden, allowing you expand your growing areas far beyond the grassed and border areas and when roses are added, just wow!
As it is valentines and well roses are kind of the flower of love, we thought we would guide you through planting roses in pots from selecting the right roses, preparing your terracotta pots through to providing proper care to ensure your potted roses stand the test of time and look flawless year after year
Choosing the Right Rose Variety for your Pot
Not all roses like being in pots, but given the right pot (from Tom's Yard) there are lots that will thrive, so you may want to consider the following options:
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Miniature and Patio Roses – These compact roses grow well in containers and require minimal space. Our favourite varieties include Lavender Jewel, Little Flirt and Cutie Pie but there are varieties spanning the rainbow, so plenty to help compliment your colour scheme.
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Shrub Roses – These stunning English roses are known for their natural bushy habit making them ideal for large pots and really making an impact in your garden
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Climbing Roses – If you have a large terracotta pot, and ample support, then you can most certainly grow climbing roses in pots. We recommend a pot no smaller than 60cm wide as it is deep.
Preparing and Planting Your Rose in Your Terracotta Pot
Terracotta pots are an excellent choice for roses due to their breathability and classic look. Follow these steps to prepare your pot:
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Choose a Large Pot – Roses need sufficient space to establish their roots so you want to be looking at pots that are around 60cm and above.
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Ensure Proper Drainage – Terracotta pots have drainage holes, but adding a layer of gravel or broken pottery at the base helps prevent waterlogging
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Position the Rose Correctly – Place the rose in the center of the pot, ensuring the bud union (the swollen part where the rose was grafted) sits just above the soil level.
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Water Thoroughly – After planting, water the rose deeply to help settle the soil around the roots.
Caring for Potted Roses
To keep your roses healthy and thriving, follow these care tips:
1. Watering
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Terracotta pots dry out faster than plastic or ceramic pots, so check moisture levels frequently especially during hot Summer days.
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Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid waterlogging.
2. Feeding
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Use a balanced rose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
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Organic alternatives like compost tea or fish emulsion can also be beneficial.
3. Pruning and Deadheading
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Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers.
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Prune potted roses in early spring to promote healthy growth and shape. It is important to use clean and sharp tools for this job so as not to damage the rose.
4. Pest and Disease Control
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Keep an eye out for common rose pests like aphids and spider mites.
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Treat fungal issues, such as black spot, by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding wet foliage.
Growing roses in terracotta pots can bring charm and beauty to patios, balconies, and all size gardens. With the right rose variety, proper planting techniques, and consistent care, your potted roses will reward you with stunning blooms season after season. Happy gardening!
Have you tried growing roses in pots? Share your experiences and tips with the team at sales@tomsyard.co.uk and we will feature them on our social media
