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I live in North Georgia (USA) and I want to grow a rose bush. Knockouts are sold around here all the time and are fairly cheap, and I'm wondering when is the best time to put one in the ground?

I started one this past spring and lost it to a combination of over watering, black spot mold, not enough sun, and then drought (hey, it's been a fun year).

I'm going to pick a sunnier spot this time so the mold shouldn't be as much of an issue and will take care and do a better job watering too.

Should I start one now (later October/early November, we should be getting a frost any day now) or wait until Spring?

Sue Saddest Farewell TGO GL
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wax eagle
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1 Answers1

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Personally I think Autumn (Fall) is the best time of year to plant things like perennials, shrubs, trees.

That said, late Autumn (Fall) planting can be a little risky depending on exactly what it is you're planting.

I say go for it now (end of October) or sometime within the next 2 to 3 weeks (by mid November).

  • Choose a full-sun location.

    • Morning sun is important.

    • A little bit of late afternoon shade isn't a problem.

  • Good air circulation around the plant is important.

  • Roses like a fertile, well drained soil.

    • Though they will tolerate a wide range of soils, except those that stay wet.

  • Prepare the chosen location by putting down a 4inch (100mm) thick layer of organic matter (compost, leaf mold, well rotted farmyard manure, etc), then dig that into the soil -- you will want to dig down at least 12inches (300mm).

  • When planting I like to add (mix in) a little bone meal into the back fill material.

Below are some resources I believe you will find helpful/useful:

I highly recommend you read the above documents/articles, especially read up on "planting" and "Winter protection."

Sue Saddest Farewell TGO GL
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Mike Perry
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