As the name suggests, floribunda roses (or “bedding roses”) are usually happiest right in your garden beds. But here’s a pro tip: with the right care and a little extra attention, these beauties can actually thrive in containers, too! If you’re looking to brighten up your patio or balcony, here is everything you need to know to get it right.
Key Tips for Growing Roses in Pots
For the most part, caring for a potted rose isn’t all that different from caring for one in the ground. However, since life in a container is a bit more “extreme” for a rose, there are a few golden rules to keep in mind:
- Give them space: Make sure you choose a large enough pot! Roses have deep roots and don’t like being cramped.
- Watch the water: While roses in the ground can often fend for themselves, potted plants dry out fast. You’ll need to water much more frequently.
- Don’t forget the snacks: Nutrients in potting soil get used up quickly. To keep those blooms coming, you’ll need to fertilize more often than you would in a garden bed.
- Handle with care: Generally speaking, potted roses are a bit more sensitive than their “in-ground” cousins—especially when the winter chill sets in.
Finding the Perfect Spot
One of the best things about container gardening is the mobility. You can move your roses around as the seasons change! Generally, roses are sun-worshippers, so feel free to place them in full sun during the spring.
However, floribundas can get a bit stressed out by extreme heat. This is where those pot wheels come in handy! During the peak of summer, try moving the container to a spot with partial shade so your rose isn’t getting baked by the intense midday sun.
One more thing: while roses aren’t huge fans of getting their leaves soaked by rain, avoid tucking them away under a roof overhang. They need good air circulation to stay healthy; otherwise, you’re just inviting pests and diseases to the party.
Winterizing Your Potted Roses
The good news is that you don’t need to find a spot indoors for your roses over the winter. They are perfectly happy staying outside! Just move the pot to a shady, sheltered spot so it isn’t hitting those wild temperature swings between sunny days and freezing nights.
To keep the roots cozy, wrap the pot in bubble wrap or nestle it inside a larger secondary container. Cover the soil with a layer of brushwood or evergreen branches, and wrap the plant itself in some garden fleece. With these steps, your potted roses will be tucked in and ready to bounce back come spring!
