Buying a rose bush isn’t just about picking the prettiest bloom—it’s about choosing a plant that will thrive in your garden and bring joy for seasons to come. Whether you're a first-time rose grower or a seasoned gardener, knowing the right questions to ask at the nursery can make all the difference.
Here’s a helpful guide on the most important questions to ask at a rose nursery before buying, so you go home with healthy plants that suit your space and style.
1. What Type of Rose Is This?
Roses come in many forms—hybrid teas, floribundas, climbers, shrub roses, groundcovers, and more. Each has its own growth habit and maintenance needs.
Ask:
Is this rose a climber, shrub, or compact bush?
Is it a hybrid tea (good for cutting) or floribunda (best for landscaping)?
Why it matters: Knowing the type will help you plan for spacing, pruning, and how to use it in your garden design.
2. What Are This Rose's Light and Climate Requirements?
Not all roses thrive in every location. Some need full sun, while others tolerate partial shade. Some are hardy in freezing winters, others are not.
Ask:
What USDA hardiness zones is this rose suitable for?
How many hours of sunlight does it need each day?
Will it tolerate my region’s humidity, heat, or cold?
Why it matters: You’ll want a rose that’s well-suited to your local climate to avoid disappointment or extra maintenance.
3. Is This Rose Disease-Resistant?
Some rose varieties are naturally more resistant to common problems like black spot, powdery mildew, and rust.
Ask:
Is this rose considered disease-resistant or low-maintenance?
Has it shown resistance to pests or common rose issues in this area?
Why it matters: Disease-resistant roses are easier to care for, especially for beginner gardeners or organic growers.
4. How Much Care Does This Rose Require?
Some roses need frequent pruning, spraying, or fertilizing to stay healthy and bloom well.
Ask:
How often should I prune or deadhead this rose?
Does it require regular feeding or special soil?
Is it a good fit for beginners or low-maintenance gardening?
Why it matters: Understanding the care routine helps you pick a rose that fits your lifestyle and gardening skills.
5. When and How Often Will This Rose Bloom?
Some roses bloom once a year, while others bloom continuously through the season.
Ask:
Is this a once-blooming or repeat-blooming variety?
When is the typical bloom period?
How large and fragrant are the flowers?
Why it matters: If you want a showy garden all summer long or a bouquet-ready bloom, go for repeat bloomers with a reliable flowering schedule.
6. Is This a Grafted or Own-Root Rose?
Roses are either grafted (a rose variety fused onto a hardy rootstock) or grown on their own roots.
Ask:
Is this plant grafted or own-root?
What are the benefits or drawbacks of each in my climate?
Why it matters: Grafted roses often grow faster but may suffer in cold climates. Own-root roses tend to be more winter-hardy and regrow true to type if damaged.
7. How Should I Plant and Care for It Once I Get Home?
Get specific instructions to help your new rose get off to a healthy start.
Ask:
What’s the best way to plant this variety (depth, spacing)?
Should I amend the soil or add mulch?
How often should I water in the first few weeks?
Why it matters: Each nursery-grown rose may come in different packaging (bare root, container-grown) and need slightly different care upon transplanting.
Bonus: Other Smart Questions to Ask
Are these roses grown organically?
Is this rose patented (can I propagate it)?
Do you offer a warranty or guarantee on plant health?
Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
The best rose nurseries are filled with knowledgeable staff who want you to succeed. Don’t hesitate to ask questions—they’ll appreciate your interest and often share insider tips you won’t find on plant tags.
Armed with the right questions, you’ll not only choose a rose that fits your garden—you’ll also enjoy a thriving plant that brings beauty and satisfaction for years to come.
