How to Grow Modern Shrub Rose - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Modern shrub rose is a hybrid rose plant that was developed in the early 1900s. It is a cross between the old garden rose and the modern rose. The modern shrub rose is characterized by its large, showy blooms, and its ability to produce an abundance of flowers. It is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping because of its beauty and hardiness.

How to Grow Modern Shrub Rose - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • Garden rose
  • Shrub rose
  • Rosa
  • Flowering shrub
  • Ornamental shrub

Basic info

  • Modern shrub roses are derived from a number of different rose species.
  • They are typically more compact and bushy than other types of roses.
  • They usually have quite a few small flowers, rather than large blooms.
  • Many modern shrub roses are very disease-resistant.
  • They are often very easy to care for and maintain.
  • Most modern shrub roses will bloom continuously from spring until fall.
  • Many of them are very drought-tolerant, once established.
  • They come in a wide range of colors, from white and cream to pink, red, and purple.
  • Modern shrub roses are generally very hardy and can survive in a wide range of climates.
  • Most are suitable for growing in containers, as well as in the ground.

How to Grow

  1. For modern shrub rose, first step is to find a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil.
  2. Prepare the planting area by removing any weeds or grasses.
  3. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the rose’s root ball.
  4. Loosen the rose’s roots gently with your hands.
  5. Place the rose in the hole so that the graft union (where the rose was grafted onto the rootstock) is 2 to 4 inches below the soil surface.
  6. Fill in the hole with soil, tamping it down gently as you go.
  7. Water the rose deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
  8. Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the rose, being careful not to pile it up against the stem.
  9. Water the rose regularly, providing 1 to 2 inches of water each week.
  10. Fertilize the rose every 6 to 8 weeks with a general-purpose fertilizer.

The Soil

About soil condition, modern shrub roses grow best in fertile, well-drained soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. They also prefer soils that are high in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you can improve its drainage by adding some organic matter such as compost or shredded leaves.

Light condition

So, like the other roses, modern shrub roses require full sun to thrive. Six to eight hours of sunlight each day is ideal, although they will still grow and bloom with less sun. If you live in an area with hot summers, some afternoon shade is appreciated to prevent the flowers from getting scorched.

Good Temperature

The temperature conditions that are ideal for modern shrub roses are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Roses thrive in these temperatures, and they are able to produce an abundant amount of blooms.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40-60%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to curl and the plant will stop growing. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will start to rot.

The Fertilizer

For the fertilizer, this type of plant prefers low nitrogen and higher phosphorus levels. For the root, it is best to start with a soil that is well drained but still has moisture. You can also start with a soil mix that has perlite or vermiculite.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your modern shrub rose healthy and looking its best. You should prune your rose in early spring, before new growth begins. Once new growth begins, you can prune away any dead or diseased branches. You should also trim back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

About Propagating

Propagation is typically done by taking cuttings from the desired plant. Cuttings should be taken from new growth, as this will root more easily. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long, and the bottom leaves should be removed. The cutting should be placed in a pot with well-draining soil, and kept moist. After a few weeks, the cutting should take root and can be transplanted to a larger pot or into the ground.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is extremely fast, with new plants easily growing several feet in a single growing season. This is especially true of newer varieties that have been bred for superior growth rate. Gardeners should be prepared to provide support for these rapidly growing plants, as they can quickly become top-heavy and fall over without proper staking.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant is black spot, which is a fungal disease, and powdery mildew, which is another fungal disease. Both of these problems can be controlled with the use of fungicides. Insect problems are not as common, but can include aphids, Japanese beetles, and scale. These insects can be controlled with the use of insecticides.

Tips on Growing

  • Make sure to plant your modern shrub rose in a location that receives full sun.
  • Be sure to prepare your soil properly before planting by tilling and adding organic matter.
  • Plant your rose at the correct depth, making sure the graft union is above the soil line.
  • Space your plants properly to allow for adequate air circulation.
  • Water your plants regularly, especially during periods of drought.
  • Fertilize your plants monthly using a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune your plants regularly to encourage new growth and to keep them from getting too leggy.
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooming.
  • Protect your plants from pests and diseases by using preventive measures such as insecticidal soap and fungicide.
  • Enjoy the beautiful blooms of your modern shrub rose all season long!

Substitution

  • Branching Shrub-rose (Rosa multiflora)
  • Coral Shrub-rose (Rosa rugosa)
  • Drift Shrub-rose (Rosa x alba)
  • Flowering Shrub-rose (Rosa multiflora)
  • Fragrant Shrub-rose (Rosa x alba)
  • groundcover shrub rose (Rosa x alba)
  • Hybrid Shrub-rose (Rosa x alba)
  • KNOCK OUT® Family of Shrub Roses (Rosa x alba)
  • Pasture Rose (Rosa multiflora)
  • Prairie Rose (Rosa arkansana)

Source:
Shrub Roses
TYPES OF MODERN ROSES - ucanr.edu
C Shrub Roses - Rosa spp. - University of Florida

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category