Growing roses indoors is a fun way to enjoy this popular plant all year long, no matter what the weather is like outside. Rose enthusiasts, known as rosarians, are finding new ways to bring their favorite colorful flowers into the home. Winter is the perfect time to start your indoor rose garden because plants are dormant and bare root plants are available everywhere. If you’re interested in bringing these beautiful blooms into your home this winter, read on for some tips for getting started.
Choosing the Right Rose Varieties
Traditionally, rosarians have turned to miniature roses for indoor use. Today however, almost any rose variety can thrive inside, as long as it is suited to the conditions you can provide. Most rose plants can be grown in a sunny corner or window area but several species work well with artificial light. Miniature roses require the highest amount of light, so choose these only if you have lots of sunshine or grow lights. Otherwise, select a species that can thrive in partial shade. If you can provide some form of trellis, climbing varieties can make a dramatic indoor presentation. Miniature climbing species can be grouped together in larger containers for a tapestry of living color.
Getting Started with Indoor Roses
Plant your indoor rose garden in January or February, when plants are dormant. Select a deep container approximately as wide as the plant’s canopy will be and that provides good drainage. Use a soil mix that contains the nutrients and drainage material appropriate for the species you have selected. Most potting soil mixes will work as long as they have a neutral pH, but some experts prefer to use a peat soil for its drainage. If you use regular potting soil, add in about one third the volume of perlite or vermiculite to ensure good soil porosity. South-facing light is best but you can locate your plants anywhere in the house that provides six to eight hours a day of sunlight and plenty of air circulation. Unless your home normally has a high level of humidity, place the pot in a tray of pebbles. This will provide the recommended humidity level for healthy growth. Ideal temperatures at night should not drop below the mid-60s, with stay in the 70s during the day.
Keeping Indoor Roses Healthy
Water your roses daily or every other day, depending on how much your soil holds water, and always keep a small amount of water in the pot’s drip tray. Fertilize monthly with a water-soluble variety designed for use with roses. Use pruning shears or sharp scissors to remove blooms as soon as they fade, to keep new flowers coming. Prune any dead branches and those that intersect others. Repot your indoor roses once a year to renew soil nutrients. If you notice yellow leaves, this typically indicates a lack of sunlight, humidity or insufficient watering.
In the Salt Lake City area, Millcreek Gardens loves helping rose enthusiasts with their gardening needs. Their friendly, experienced staff can guide you in the right direction with plant selection and they have all the products and accessories you need. Bring some living color to your home this year. Let Millcreek Gardens help you with growing roses indoors and out.