Setup, Compatibility & Care
Oliver's Rose is supplied as an established plant in a 4-litre pot. Upon arrival, water the plant thoroughly. If planting is not immediate, keep it in a frost-free location and allow it time to settle before the main growing season begins.
Planting:
- Choose a sunny or partially shaded location with good air circulation.
- Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball and loosen the soil.
- Place the rose in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Backfill the hole with soil, firm gently, and water well.
- For climbing support, use a trellis, wires, or an obelisk, and tie in new shoots as they extend.
Care:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first growing season and dry periods.
- Feeding: Apply a suitable rose feed during active growth.
- Pruning: Prune annually in late winter or early spring to manage size and shape, and to encourage abundant flowering. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
- Winter Care: While the plant is hardy, protect newly planted roses from severe frost. As mentioned, natural leaf drop in autumn is normal; new growth will appear in spring.
Compatibility:
Oliver's Rose is compatible with most garden soils and can be grown alongside other compatible climbing plants, provided they do not compete excessively for resources. It is well-suited for use with structures like pergolas, fences, walls, and large containers.