Why Your Bare Root Roses Keep Struggling-and How to Fix Them
Gardening creator Bethie, Master Gardener, on TikTok says many bare-root roses run into trouble before they ever have a chance to grow. In a recent video, @blueacregarden pointed to two common mistakes she sees again and again: skipping the root soak and planting roses at the wrong depth.
Both are easy to avoid, but they can have a big impact on how well a rose establishes during its first season.
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The Two Bare Root Rose Mistakes to Avoid
The first mistake is planting roots straight out of the box.
@blueacregarden If you have ever bought a bare root rose online and it didn't survive planting, this video is for you! Want stunning roses this season? Plant bare root roses the right way for stronger roots, healthier growth, and more blooms! Many people skip soaking the roots or plant their roots too shallowly. Save this guide for planting season and follow for more garden tips! #BareRootRoses#RoseGardening#GardenTips#GrowingRoses#FlowerGarden
Shabang - Drake
The creator recommends soaking bare roots in lukewarm water for two to six hours before planting. The extra moisture helps rehydrate the roots after shipping and storage.
She also advises gardeners to pay close attention to planting depth. Grafted roses should be planted with the bud union at the appropriate soil level for the local climate, while own-root roses should be planted with the crown at soil level.
Beyond those two steps, she recommends choosing a sunny location, working compost into the soil before planting, and digging a hole wide enough for roots to spread naturally. Once planted, roses should be thoroughly watered and covered with a layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture.
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How to Give Your Bare-Root Roses the Best Start
Choose a sunny spot with good drainage and work compost or organic matter into the soil.
- Dig a hole 18 to 24 inches wide so the roots can spread out without bending.
- Soak bare roots in lukewarm water for two to six hours before planting. Don't leave them soaking overnight.
- Place the rose at the proper depth. For grafted roses, position the bud union at or slightly above soil level in warm climates or 1 to 2 inches below soil level in colder regions. Own-root roses should be planted with the crown at soil level.
- Spread the roots gently in the hole and backfill with soil and compost, taking care not to cram or fold them.
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist while the rose becomes established.
- Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base, leaving a small gap between the stems and the mulch.
- Wait until new growth appears before fertilizing. A light, balanced fertilizer can be applied once the rose starts leafing out.
- Prune away any broken or overly long canes at planting time.
- Protect newly planted roses from harsh sun or strong winds until they become established.
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Why These Steps Help Roses Establish More Easily
The soak isn't just an extra precaution.
Rose-growing guidance from horticultural experts notes that keeping rose material hydrated is important while the roots are developing and becoming established. Dry roots have a harder time recovering after planting.
The creator's recommendation to choose a sunny location also lines up with advice from gardening expert Tyler Francis. Roses should receive at least six hours of sunlight each day in well-draining soil.
Gardening experts note that regular watering, deadheading spent blooms and fertilizing after bloom cycles can encourage stronger growth and more flowers throughout the season. They also recommend pruning away dead or damaged growth so the plant can direct its energy toward healthy stems and future blooms.
For gardeners planting bare-root roses this year, getting the basics right from the start may be the difference between a plant that struggles and one that settles in for a season full of growth.
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This story was originally published June 11, 2026 at 5:12 PM.