Tom's Yard Best Bare Root Roses for Pots

Tom's Yard Best Bare Root Roses for Pots

As the colder days are rolling in we might think that it's too late to plant... but it is in fact getting on to the perfect time to plant roses, in bare root form.
 
They're a more affordable option to growing roses and there is a huge catalogue of varieties available across the internet, as well as in your local nurseries. The literal 'bare roots' don't mind the cold and they can provide a great advantage on getting ahead on Spring and Summer rose flowering. 
 
Planting bare roots into pots give them a fantastic start to growing and they flourish in large pots, especially quality terracotta pots. It gives you the ability to grow roses in pretty much any space, walled courtyards, balconies or cosy seating areas. 
 
Bushy shrub roses are ideal for growing in large containers (around 50cm +) but this doesn't exclude climbers - adding an oblesik into the pot will help assist with their climbing habit whilst making a sensational potted feature.
 

For some inspiration, here are Tom's Yard favourite bare root roses!

 

Best rose for scent

I didn't have to think too hard about this one as the Gertrude Jekyll rose from David Austin smells simply divine! It's a gorgeous rose that is one of the first to flower and will continue to do so through the season, with some deadheading. I love that the Gertrude Jekyll loves pots because it means you can place it right by a door, or seating area so you can wrap yourself in the fragrant smell while you enjoy your garden. 

 Gertrude Jekyll | English Shrub Rose | David Austin Roses

 

Best for Pollinator Choice 

Lady's Blush ticks the 'Great For Pollinators Box' due to the open nature of the flowers. Unlike the 'ruffly' closed rose varieties, the open petals of Lady's blush make it a firm favourite for bees to visit. As well as it's perfect for pollinator credentials, it's also a solid choice if you're after a rose that suits a shady spot. That's right, the Lady's Blush will thrive in shady areas, which is brilliant if you have a challenging space needing an injection of colour. 

The Lady's Blush | English Shrub Rose | David Austin Roses

 

Best rose for shady spots

We're asked this a lot so we're giving you two shady spot rose contenders. You have Lady's Blush which you have just read above and the oh so wonderful Cardinal De Richelieu. An old, classic rose with striking purple blooms; This is practically thornless and flourishes in shady spots in the garden. It's compact nature makes it perfect for growing in pots and it's also a super option if you're looking to grow roses for making your own exquisite flower arrangements. 

 

Cardinal De Richelieu (Traditional Rose Shrub x 1 Bare Root) Pre Order – The Rose Press Garden

 

Best Climbing Rose for Pots

Introducing Rambling Rosie. As far as rambling roses go, this is a short variety growing up to roughly 2.5m (About 8 feet). Though short doesn't mean boring as the stems are adorned with large groups of crimson-red flowers that really pack a punch. Due to the nature of Rambling Rosie, you will need to provide support - and obelisks will do just the job.

 Rambling Rosie | Rambling Rose | David Austin Roses

 

When buying bare root roses it is best to get them planted as soon as they arrive for the best results and this is another reason planting in pots is a great idea. You won't need to wait for the ground to thaw if your rose arrives during a frost, you can fill your pot with fresh peat free compost, plant up and leave for the Winter to enjoy come the warmer months. 
  
Remember, when selecting your pots, the larger the better and nothing with an internal planting space smaller than 45cm x 45cm. Something like the 60cm Roubakia Cretan Terracotta Planter would be perfect, and it's a pot that looks magnificent with established roses. Roubakia Cretan Terracotta Planter – Tom's Yard (tomsyard.co.uk)
 
We hope you have enjoyed a little snapshot into our favourite bare root roses for pots. Keep reading along for more Autumn and Winter inspiration and our favourite plants to give you seasonal interest in your pots now the warmer days are leaving for the year. 
— Gem Willis
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