Rose Barrrel

[mikesnr]

I have a tall (7ft+) standard rose which was planted in a 16in earthenware pot until it blew over and fragmented yesterday!. Have just bought a 20in x 12in banded timber barrel as replacement. I wonder whether it might be efficacious to line the barrel interior with plastic sheet, suitably punctured to allow water egress? And should I 'spread' the rose root-ball? As a novice I'll be most grateful for any tips. Thank you.

[shylock73]

Yes, lining it is recommended, and drill some holes in the base for drainage, and some stones to add some extra weight also. Then add John Innes No 2 rather than No 3 or you may get soft lush growth before winter sets in. Next spring add No3 to the top 2 inches and leave a gap at the top of about 2inches for watering. Be sure to stake it as it`s 7ft tall. Just tease the roots out gently and keep watered until it`s settled in. What rose is it? HTH`s

[mikesnr]

Many thanks shylock. I presume the lining helps prevent wood rot? The rose is prosaically named "Orange Sensation", and it is truly prolific! the top foliage has grown more than 3feet since purchase in April this year. Blooms have been abundant - up to 20 large flowers at any time - and change colour from an arresting golden/orange to red over period 7-10 days. It's also scented. Very pleasing overall. So far I've used only ordinary compost (recycled kitchen waste) and "TopRose" (liberally). I'll try your method however; guess soft growth at this time is not advised?

[shylock73]

Hello again mikesnr. Yes, Orange Sensation is a lovely rose, but using homemade compost doesn`t give it all the nutrients it needs for healthy growth, as it can carry diseases, so just use it as a mulch in the winter months and allow our little worms to sort it out in the way only they can.

[mikesnr]

Thanks again shylock. I have completed the transfer, and added a dozen or so earthworms to the mix for good measure! I've also pruned all the top dead-head stems back by about 8-10 inches (there were clusters of up to 12 blooms on each). Is this in order? Thanks, Mike