Question
QUESTION: Dear Lynnette,

I just planted a new developing Granada Hybrid Tea Rose bush this morning. I bought it already set in soil so I removed it from its pot and placed it in a deep hole, covered it with/ black organic soil that had manure and peat moss, and watered it well. Then during the day I found the one and only bud that was ready to bloom had drooped. What could cause this? I am very concerned and confused since this is the first time I ever planted a rosebush and was very excited after reading so much about it. Please help and all your advice will be greatly appreciated! By the way, I live in Toronto, Canada and the temperature is we are in the middle of spring.

Thanks a bunch!

Warm regards, Saba

ANSWER: If the rose came out of the pot and the roots were in a soil ball then there should be no problems. Roses hate to be moved when they are starting to grow or moved anytime for that matter. However if some of the soil did fall away they the bush is just re-acting to it's new location. Also if it was planted in the full sun, then this too would cause the bud to droop. Personally I would cut the bud off as the flower will now not be a strong one and then daily water the rose to keep it moist. Try giving it any type of liquid fertilizer such as fish, as this type gets to the roots instantly. Fed it monthly with the liquid fertilizer and then no more after the end of July as you want the rose to harden off it's canes so it will go thought the winter toughened up.

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QUESTION: Hi! U an delighted to see such a quick response.. and also that my rose bud is standing straight tall again! I think it was transplant shock that made it droop and what you mentioned about the rose bush reacting to its new location. I have not cut off the bud but hoping it will strengthen and bloom when the time comes. Would this be ok? Should I still fertilize? And how often if needed? Would miracle grow be good for the rosebush? Thank you so much.

Answer
Glad to hear your rose has perked up now you can leave the bud on. Yes, go ahead and fertilize with Miracle Gro, it is a good fertilizer for roses. Once a month is really all you will need as you don't want to push the rose growth too hard. Better to have a sturdy slower growing rose than a fast weak one.