Knowledgebase
Timing for transplanting rose bushes #872229
Asked June 08, 2024, 8:35 PM EDT
Hello,
I live in Castle Rock and am looking to transplant three rose bushes (they're established but they're rather small) from one part of my property to another.
I feel like I've missed my window to do this for spring, since all three are blooming and temperatures are now in the 80s every day.
I'm hoping for guidance on the best time to plant them - from what I'm reading, autumn might work, but it looks like I would need to replant them several weeks before a first frost, which in this state can also mean it's still hot out. If I have to wait until next spring, I would rather just buy another type of hardy shrub and plant it this summer or early fall.
What do you recommend as far as timing to have the best chance of survival for these rose bushes?
Should I prune them down and remove any foliage before transplanting?
I appreciate any tips! Thank you.
Douglas County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Kevin,
You can still transplant the roses now; be sure to dig a good-sized root ball with them and then make sure to give them a little extra TLC (in the form of water) through the summer.
There's no need to prune them back first, though it would help to remove the flowers and flower buds so that the plants can focus on root growth rather than on flowering.
Through this summer on particularly hot days you could consider "syringing" the plants in the afternoon (between say 3pm and 6pm)--this is just spraying the plants down with water to cool them off--a quick spray down will do. This practice can help to relieve stress on newly planted trees and shrubs.
I hope this is helpful.
Cordially,
John
On Monday, June 10, 2024, 9:19 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
You're welcome; good luck!
