How to Transplant a Budding Rose Bush

Saturate the soil around the budding rose bush each day for about one week if possible. Do this for as many days up to a week as you can before the transplant.

Dig a hole to plant the rose bush in. The hole should be at least 18 inches wide. Dig down 15 inches to give the roots plenty of space. Having this hole ready is important when the rose bush is already budding.

Add lots of organic matter to the dirt you removed and mix well. This will help fertilize the rose bush so it's roots grow into the soil.

Cut back the lower branches of the rose bush using pruning shears. Wear thick gloves to protect your hands.

Use a shovel to cut into the soil around the rose bush when you're ready for the transplant. Cut into the soil at least 9 inches past the drip line, which is where the branches stop.

Fit the shovel underneath the roots and lift up like a pry bar. Your shovel should slip under the roots about 15 inches down.

Create a small mound of dirt in the hole you dug and set the roots of the rose bush on top. Be careful not to knock off many buds during the process.

Replace the dirt and organic matter mixture until the hole is half filled. Saturate with water.

Fill in the rest of the hole, and saturate with water again. Build up a mound of dirt around the rose bush base. Water again. Add a little more dirt if it settled, and water again.