Emergency Transplant: Can Roses Survive 6 Days Out of Ground in Spring?

Two rose bushes dug up 6 days ago during a redesign in zone 6 (SE Pennsylvania) looked dry with withering leaves. They had large root balls. The gardener asked if they could be saved.

Grim but Possible

Roses hate moving during active growth. Six days exposed is critical. If attempting rescue: dig a large hole, flood it, cut roses to 12 inches, plant immediately, water daily, and wash foliage. No fertilizer. They may limp through summer and regrow next spring—or die. It's a gamble.