Rose Gardening 101 for Long Island New Homeowner: Viette Sisters, Soil Test, and Sun

A new Long Island homeowner (Jennifer) found 3 roses on 50x4 driveway bed with hydrangeas/shrubs. Wanted to add 4 more, loved fragrance/color, asked if too late to plant and best types.

Not Too Late! Plant Now.

Fall planting (through November) = best root establishment. Spring bloom guaranteed.

Premier Long Island Source

Viette Sisters Farmstand (Northern Blvd/25A, Old Brookville) – Family-owned, real gardeners, handshake orders, deep acreage, hundreds of varieties. Avoid Martin Viette (corporate).

Soil Test First (Critical)

• Hicks Nursery (Jericho Turnpike) – test service, organic supplies, ladybugs!
• Amend per results before planting

Bed Prep

• Full sun non-negotiable
• Dig 16", remove stones/weeds
• Bone meal, compost, manure

Favorite Rose List Offered

Expert will provide personalized list. Book rec: "Beautiful Roses" by Marie-Helene Loaec (features 'Mme Isaac Pereire').

Reality Check

You'll fall in love at the farmstand and buy what sings to you. Lists get discarded. That's the joy!

Welcome to Long Island rose gardening. The Viette sisters await!