Pot or Ground? How to Choose the Right Way to Plant Your Rose
When you buy a rose, one of the first questions is:
Should I plant it in the ground or grow it in a pot?
Both ways can work well, but the best choice depends on your space, weather, and how you care for plants.
Let’s look at the pros and cons of each.
Growing Roses in the Ground
Pros:
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Roses in the ground usually grow bigger and stronger.
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The roots have more space to spread out.
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You don't need to water as often.
Cons:
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You need a sunny spot with good soil and drainage.
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It’s harder to move the plant once it’s in the ground.
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Not great for people in apartments or renters.
Planting in the ground is a good choice if you have a yard and want your rose to grow tall, wide, and bloom many times a year.
Growing Roses in a Pot
Pros:
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Great for patios, balconies, and small gardens.
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You can move the pot to get more sun or protect it from bad weather.
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Easier to control soil and water.
Cons:
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You must water more often, sometimes every day in summer.
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Roots can get crowded over time.
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Pot size matters—a pot that’s too big or too small can hurt the plant.
Use a 3-gallon pot with good drainage holes. Don’t choose a pot that’s too large, especially for young plants. Too much wet soil can rot the roots.
So, Which Should You Choose?
If you live in a house with a garden and soft soil, planting in the ground will help your rose grow stronger and last longer.
If you live in a small space or want more control, a pot is a great choice—just remember to water regularly and use a pot that fits the size of the plant.
Extra Tips:
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No matter where you plant, choose a spot with at least 4–6 hours of sun each day.
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Make sure the spot has good air flow to prevent disease.
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Don’t use fertilizer in the first year, especially with young roses. Wait until next spring.
Whether in a pot or in the ground, your rose will do well with love, sunlight, and care. At Kate Roses, we grow own-root roses that adapt well to both ways of planting. If you have questions, we’re always happy to help.
