Transplanting a Giant 'Sunset Celebration' Rose in Washington

Understanding the Beast

A 'Sunset Celebration' (Weeks rose) in Marysville, WA, grew to 12 ft (vs. 3–5 ft expected) with plate-sized blooms. Planted 3 years ago in nursery pot, in clay amended with Miracle-Gro soil and lawn fertilizer. Fed every 3 days. Now moving to full-sun site.

Critical Corrections

• NEVER use lawn fertilizer on roses! High N causes rampant canes, few flowers.
• New site: Protected from wind, well-drained, full sun all day.
• Soil prep: Compost, acid mulch, rock dust, organic rose fertilizer.
• Pruning for vase: Cut at 5-leaflet node, strip leaves, harvest bud just before opening.

Moving the Root Ball

Max 2×2 ft dig. The plant may be own-root (no graft) given its vigor. Water deeply after transplant, mulch heavily, reduce feeding.