| Can I plant roses in containers? What would be the best type of roses to plant in containers? What size and type of container should I be using? |
| Roses are great plants for growing in containers. Whether clay, wood or plastic, choose a pot with lots of drainage holes in the bottom, and one that will provide adequate room for the roots. The best roses to grow in pots include miniatures, polyanthas and floribundas. In terms of size of pots, bigger is usually better. Choose a pot that's about one-third as tall as the mature plant will be. This will provide a sturdy anchor as well giving the roots enough room to stretch out. Miniature roses will do nicely in a 12-inch or two-gallon pot. Floribundas can go into a 15-inch or five-gallon pot, but a 15-gallon, or even a half-barrel will keep them happy for several years. Use potting soil rather than garden soil to fill the containers and remember to water and feed frequently. Some favorite roses for containers include 'Betty Prior' (pink floribunda), 'Brass Band' (yellow floribunda), 'Europeana' (red floribunda), 'Margaret Merrill' (white floribunda) and 'The Fairy' (pink polyantha). |
