How to Plant Rose Bushes in the Spring

Select a location in your yard that receives six full hours of direct sunlight and has well-drained soil. Roses prefer acidic soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0, suggests Ohio State University Extension. Determine soil acidity with a soil-test kit obtained from a nursery or your local agricultural department. Amend soil if necessary according to the results of the test.

Add organic matter at a depth of a 2- to 4-inch layer into the soil and three pounds of superphosphate per 100 square feet, as recommended by OSU Extension. Mix together to a depth of 12 inches. This will promote root growth and improve drainage.

Place the rose bush in a hole 15 inches deep and 18 inches wide, holding it in the hole so the top of the root ball is at ground level, according to OSU Extension. Backfill the soil around the roots, adding water to settle the soil and complete backfilling the hole. Water thoroughly after planting.

Add a light layer of manure around the rose bush followed a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch, making sure to not touch the base of the bush, recommends Texas A&M Extension. This will prevent weed growth and retain moisture.

Water rose bushes slowly using a soaker hose, watering to a depth of 12 to 18 inches, as suggested by Texas A&M. Water early in the morning to give the leaves time to dry. If not, wet leaves could cause black spots and fungi.

Fertilize three times a year with a rose food fertilizer. The last feeding before the frost, use a 0-10-10 fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's label for directions for both fertilizers.