Bare-Root Climbing Roses Arrive Early: Storage, Planting, and Companion Ideas

Vicki in NC received 10 bare-root climbing roses in plastic sleeves for Valentine's Day—too early to plant. One ('Red Fountain') shows pale yellow shoots. How long to hold? Peel plastic? Companion plants?

Immediate Handling

Plant ASAP. "Heeling in" (temporary trench) works but delays establishment. If ground workable, plant now. If frozen, keep in cool (35–45°F), dark place—garage, unheated basement. Moisten packing material. Do not peel plastic until planting—it retains humidity.

Yellow Shoots = Normal

Etiolated growth from darkness. Will green up in sun. No action needed.

Planting Protocol

1. Soak roots 2–4 hrs in water.
2. Dig wide hole (2× root spread), amend with compost.
3. Plant at same depth (bud union 1–2" below soil in cold zones).
4. Water in, mulch 2–3", add slow-release rose fertilizer.

Companion Plants for Rose Fence Line

• Daylilies (bloom sequence, same sun needs)
• Forsythia (early spring color)
• Spirea, Sedum (texture, pollinators)
• Verbena or Periwinkle (groundcover, living mulch)

Space for airflow. Train climbers horizontally on fence for maximum bloom.