Bare Root Roses

The winter planting season usually begins in October and our bare root roses can be ordered for delivery between November and April. Naturally dormant during the winter months, we refer to roses in this state as bare root roses. As well as being the traditional way of planting roses, bare roots are more economic than potted roses and surprisingly easier to handle. They will establish quickly in the garden and, unlike other plants, will flower into a beautiful, fragrant display in their first year.

Bare Root Roses

Autumn and winter are the best time to plant roses, and bare root roses are the traditional way to do it. Easy to handle and quick to establish, they flower into a beautiful, fragrant display in their very first summer.

Order from November to April for delivery within the bare root season, our despatch begins in mid-November and ends in late April. Alternatively pre-order from May to October. We'll send your roses while they're dormant and ready to plant.

What is a bare root rose?

A bare root rose is a dormant rose supplied without soil or a pot. It is lifted from the field during the cooler months, carefully packed and sent ready to plant.

When and where can I plant a bare root rose?

Bare root roses are planted during their dormant season, from October to April. Choose a position suited to the variety, prepare the soil well and avoid planting when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

How long can I keep a bare root rose before planting?

If you cannot plant straight away, keep your rose in its packaging somewhere cool, dry and frost-free. It can be kept this way for up to two weeks.

Do bare root roses flower in their first year?

Yes. Once planted and established, repeat-flowering varieties can produce their first blooms in the summer following planting. View our repeat-flowering varieties here.

Are bare root roses better than potted roses?

Both will grow into the same beautiful rose. Bare root roses are particularly good value and ideal for planting during the traditional rose season, while potted roses offer the flexibility to plant throughout the year.

Can I plant a bare root rose in a pot?

Yes. Many bare root roses can be grown successfully in a suitably generous container. Choose a variety appropriate for container growing, shop our collection here, and give it sufficient room to develop. Watch our full video guide here.

How should I prepare the soil before planting?

Prepare the ground thoroughly, removing weeds and loosening the soil so the roots can spread naturally. Adding well-rotted organic matter can help improve the soil before planting. Discover more on our bare root planting guide.

Is a bare root rose more likely to fail than a potted rose?

No. Bare root roses are simply supplied at a different stage of their natural growing cycle. Planted correctly during the dormant season, they establish readily and grow on strongly as spring arrives. Discover our bare root planting guides for all of the information you'll need to ensure your bare root roses thrive.

What size and age is the bare root rose when it arrives?

A bare root rose arrives dormant, so it will look very different from a rose in full growth. It will have a developed root system and pruned stems, ready to establish once planted. Exact size will naturally vary between varieties and individual plants.

Is there a guarantee if my rose does not establish?

Yes. Our roses are covered by our five-year guarantee. If your rose fails to grow, we will replace it free of charge.