Planting Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs in December: Essential Winter Gardening Tips for a Flourishing Garden

Introduction

December may seem like an unusual time to plant, but it’s actually one of the best months to plant bare-root roses and shrubs. Bare-root plants are dormant during this period, making it easier for them to establish a strong root system before the growing season begins. Planting them in December allows the roots to settle in and start growing early in spring, leading to healthier, more vigorous plants. This guide will explain why planting bare-root roses and shrubs in December is advantageous, how to do it properly, and answer common questions to help you successfully add these beautiful plants to your garden.

Why Planting Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs in December Is Beneficial

Encourages early root establishment: When planted in December, bare-root plants can start developing their root systems even before they sprout leaves. This head start helps them grow stronger and healthier throughout the growing season.
Saves money: Bare-root roses and shrubs are often less expensive than potted plants, as they don’t require soil or containers. Purchasing them in winter can save you money and allow you to buy more varieties.
Easy to handle and plant: Bare-root plants are lightweight, easy to transport, and simple to plant. They are less bulky than potted plants, making them easier to handle and position in your garden.
Wider selection: Nurseries typically offer a broader range of rose and shrub varieties in bare-root form. This gives you the opportunity to choose from a wider selection of colors, sizes, and species.

Types of Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs Ideal for Planting in December

Here are some common types of roses and shrubs that do well when planted bare-root in December:

Hybrid Tea Roses

Description: Known for their large, classic blooms, hybrid teas are a popular choice for gardeners. Planting them bare-root in winter helps them establish strong roots and ensures prolific blooming.
Best growing conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil.

Floribunda Roses

Description: Floribunda roses produce clusters of smaller flowers, adding vibrant color to garden beds. Winter planting allows them to settle in and bloom beautifully in the spring.
Best growing conditions: Full sun, regular watering, well-drained soil.

Climbing Roses

Description: Climbers are perfect for adding vertical interest to fences, trellises, and walls. Planting them bare-root in December allows the roots to grow and anchor firmly before they begin climbing.
Best growing conditions: Sun-drenched areas, sturdy support, rich soil.

Deciduous Shrubs (e.g., Hydrangea, Forsythia, Lilac)

Description: These shrubs drop their leaves in winter but return with lush, vibrant foliage and blooms in spring. Planting bare-root versions in December helps them acclimate to their new environment.
Best growing conditions: Depending on the variety, most prefer well-drained soil and either full sun or partial shade.

Evergreen Shrubs (e.g., Boxwood, Holly, Camellia)

Description: Evergreen shrubs retain their foliage year-round, providing structure and color to the garden even in winter. Bare-root planting ensures robust root growth and seamless transition to active growth in spring.
Best growing conditions: Varied, but many thrive in partial to full sun and well-drained soil.

How to Properly Plant Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs in December

Bare-root planting is straightforward, but there are a few key steps to ensure success. Follow this process to give your plants the best start:

1. Prepare the Planting Site

Why preparation is important: A well-prepared site ensures that your plants have the best environment to establish roots. It also reduces competition from weeds and improves soil health.
How to prepare: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to comfortably accommodate the roots of the plant. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.

2. Soak the Bare-Root Plants

Why soaking matters: Bare-root plants can dehydrate during transport. Soaking them rehydrates the roots, ensuring they are ready to start growing once planted.
How to soak: Place the roots in a bucket of water and let them soak for 2-4 hours before planting. This will help the plant recover from any dehydration and prepare it for planting.

3. Position the Plant Correctly

Place it at the right depth: Make sure the bud union (the swollen part where the rose was grafted) is about an inch or two below the soil level. For shrubs, the roots should be level with or slightly below the surface.
Spread out the roots: Gently spread out the roots in the hole, ensuring they are not twisted or crowded. This helps the roots grow outward and establish a strong base.

4. Backfill and Water Thoroughly

How to backfill: Fill in the hole with soil, gently pressing it down to remove air pockets. Make sure the plant is upright and stable. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and help the roots establish contact with the surrounding earth.
Add mulch: After planting, add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs in December

Bare-root planting is generally easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Planting too shallow or too deep: If the plant is too shallow, the roots may dry out, and if it’s too deep, the plant may struggle to grow. Aim to have the bud union slightly below the soil level for roses, and ensure roots are fully covered for shrubs.
Not soaking the roots: Planting dry roots can lead to failure. Always soak the roots before planting to ensure they are well-hydrated.
Ignoring winter watering: Even though the plants are dormant, they still need moisture. Water the plants occasionally if the winter is dry, especially right after planting.

Benefits of Planting Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs in December

Stronger root establishment: Winter planting gives roots time to settle and grow, leading to stronger, more resilient plants in spring and summer.
Cost-effective: Bare-root plants are usually less expensive than potted versions, and buying them in bulk can save money.
Wider selection: Nurseries offer a broader range of plants in bare-root form, giving gardeners more options for their garden design.

Best Practices for Planting Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs in December

Choose the right location: Ensure the planting site has good drainage and receives plenty of sunlight. Most roses and shrubs need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the soil: Work compost or organic matter into the soil to enrich it. This provides nutrients and improves soil structure, helping the roots to establish more quickly.
Protect from harsh weather: If heavy frost or snow is forecast soon after planting, cover the area with a frost cloth or temporary mulch to protect the new plantings from extreme cold.

Common Questions and Answers About Planting Bare-Root Roses and Shrubs in December

Why should I plant bare-root roses and shrubs in December?

Planting in December allows the roots to establish themselves during the dormant period. This gives the plant a head start, leading to stronger growth and more blooms in spring.

How deep should I plant bare-root roses?

The bud union (swollen graft point) should be about 1-2 inches below the soil surface. This depth helps protect the graft from frost damage and supports better growth.

Do I need to water my bare-root plants after planting in winter?

Yes, water them thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Continue to water occasionally during dry periods, even in winter, to keep the roots hydrated.

How long should I soak bare-root roses and shrubs before planting?

Soak the roots for 2-4 hours before planting. This rehydrates the roots, making them ready to establish themselves in the soil.

Can I plant bare-root roses and shrubs if the ground is frozen?

No, if the ground is frozen, wait until it thaws. Planting in frozen soil can damage the roots and make it difficult for the plant to establish.

What’s the best way to prepare the planting hole for bare-root shrubs?

Dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots comfortably. The hole should be deep enough so that the roots are covered, but not so deep that the plant sinks too far into the soil.

Should I add fertilizer when planting bare-root plants in December?

Avoid adding fertilizer at the time of planting. Instead, focus on improving the soil with compost or organic matter. Fertilizer can be added in spring when the plant starts actively growing.

How do I protect newly planted roses from frost?
- After planting, mulch around the base of the plant and cover it with a frost cloth during particularly cold nights. This insulates the roots and prevents frost damage.
Can I plant bare-root roses and shrubs next to established plants?
- Yes, but make sure there is enough space for the new plants to grow without competing with the roots of established plants. Good spacing ensures adequate air circulation and reduces the risk of disease.
What should I do if my bare-root roses arrive early?
- If your bare-root plants arrive before you’re ready to plant, keep them in a cool, dark place and ensure the roots remain moist. Soak the roots before planting once the conditions are right.