Everything You Need to Know About Standard Roses

The Basics of Standard Roses

Standard roses are also known as tree roses, and they're a type of rose bush that's been grafted onto a tall stem. This creates a dramatic, elegant look in the garden or on the patio, as the roses can grow up to five feet tall.

How to Plant a Standard Rose

Before you plant your standard rose, make sure you have the right location. These roses need plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. Here are the steps for planting:

1. Choose a spot with at least six hours of direct sun per day.
2. Amend the soil with compost and other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Dig a hole that's twice as wide and deep as the pot the rose came in.
4. Remove the rose from its pot and loosen any tangled roots.
5. Place the rose in the hole, making sure the crown (where the stems meet the roots) is level with the soil surface.
6. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots.
7. Water deeply to settle the soil.

Caring for Your Standard Rose

To keep your standard rose healthy and blooming, follow these tips:

• Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every six weeks during the growing season.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the bush and remove any dead or damaged wood.
• Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms.
• Protect the rose from pests and diseases with organic sprays and treatments.

The History of Standard Roses

Standard roses have been around for centuries, and they were especially popular in Victorian times. They were often used as a symbol of elegance and refinement, and they were a favorite of wealthy gardeners who could afford the extra care they required. Today, standard roses are still admired for their beauty and grace, and they're a popular choice for special occasions like weddings and anniversaries.

The Different Types of Standard Roses

There are many different types of standard roses to choose from, including:

• Hybrid tea roses, which have large, single blooms on long stems.
• Floribunda roses, which have clusters of smaller blooms on shorter stems.
• Climbing roses, which can be trained to grow up trellises or walls.
• Miniature roses, which are small but full of charm.

The Best Varieties of Standard Roses

Some of the most popular varieties of standard roses include:

1. 'Double Delight', a hybrid tea rose with large, fragrant blooms that are red and white.
2. 'Peace', a hybrid tea rose with soft yellow petals edged in pink.
3. 'Iceberg', a floribunda rose with pure white, double blooms.
4. 'Don Juan', a climbing rose with deep red blooms and a strong fragrance.
5. 'Patio Hit', a miniature rose with pink and white flowers that bloom all summer long.

Where to Buy Standard Roses

If you're interested in buying standard roses for your garden or patio, there are many places to look. Here are some options:

• Garden centers and nurseries often carry a wide selection of standard roses.
• Online retailers like Amazon and Etsy also offer many varieties of standard roses.
• Rose societies and clubs may have members who sell standard roses or can recommend reputable sources.

The Cost of Standard Roses

The cost of standard roses varies depending on the variety, size, and source. You can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 or more for a standard rose bush.

FAQs About Standard Roses

1. How tall do standard roses grow?

Standard roses can grow up to five feet tall, but the height depends on the variety and the growing conditions.

2. Can standard roses be grown in containers?

Yes, standard roses can be grown in large containers as long as they have plenty of sunlight and good drainage.

3. How often should I fertilize my standard rose?

Fertilize your standard rose every six weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

4. How do I prune my standard rose?

Prune your standard rose in late winter or early spring to shape the bush and remove any dead or damaged wood. Use sharp, clean pruning shears and make angled cuts just above a bud facing outward from the center of the plant.

5. How do I protect my standard rose from pests and diseases?

To protect your standard rose from pests and diseases, use organic sprays and treatments like neem oil, insecticidal soap, and copper fungicide. Avoid using chemical pesticides that can harm beneficial insects and the environment.