How To Grow Standard Roses In Containers

Even if you only have a small patio or limited outside space, you can still enjoy the beauty and fragrance of roses by growing a standard tree variety in a container.  Just pay a visit to your local wholesale nursery to get an idea of the vast range of colours and varieties to choose from!  Standard roses are easy to grow and care for, even for relative gardening beginners.  Read on to find out more.

How to plant your rose tree

1. Begin by half-filling a large container with compost, and then water well to help the compost to compact and settle.  
2. A tree stake is important as it will provide support to your rose tree as it grows and will offer protection from possible damage during windy weather.  Place the stake into the container before you plant your rose tree so that you don't damage the roots.  The stake should be about the same width as the rose tree's stem, and it should reach the tree's head (the bushy growing area on the top of the stem).  
3. Now, carefully unwrap the rose tree from its plastic packaging so that the root ball is exposed.  Place the root ball on top of the compost, and top up the level until the compost just reaches the top of the rose's roots.  Gently but firmly press down the compost to remove any air pockets and water well.  
4. Loosely fasten the stake to the tree's stem at several points from the bottom to the top using garden twine tied in a figure of eight.

Caring for your standard rose tree

Choose a site for your rose tree that is protected from winds and offers plenty of sunshine.  It's important to keep the container well-watered so that the tree does not become dehydrated, especially during spells of warm weather.

As the tree grows, you'll need to loosen the twine fastening it to the stake to accommodate the increasing girth of the stem.  Simply untie the twine, let out a few centimetres of play, and refasten it as before.

Pruning of your standard rose should be kept to a minimum.  All you need to do is remove any deadwood in the autumn with clean secateurs, and pinch out any new shoots that appear after the rose has flowered to help maintain the shape of the head.

Feed your rose tree with special, time release rose fertiliser in the spring as the rose begins to bud and again in the autumn.  Protect the tree from pests by spraying with a proprietary product in the spring and winter, as directed on the product packaging.  You'll find fertiliser and pest prevention products at your local garden centre or at your plant nursery.

In conclusion

Growing and caring for standard roses is simple if you follow the guidelines given above.  Ask your local plant nursery for details about the varieties they have available.