New Rose Transplant Shock: Drooping Buds and Leaf Drop in Zone 8

A zone 8 gardener planted a yellow Cordelia rose from a nursery pot. Buds drooped and leaves fell off.

Transplant Shock

Roses hate being moved. Wilting and leaf drop are classic stress responses. If the plant went from shade to full sun, that adds stress.

Care

Water daily to keep soil evenly moist (not soggy). Do not fertilize. Provide temporary shade if in full sun. In about two weeks, the rose should perk up as roots establish.