How to Make Rose Soil

Whether you prefer large, full rosebushes or delicate climbing varieties on a trellis, preparing the soil before you plant helps the rose grow well. Roses have similar soil requirements regardless of the variety, so you can grow one type or several in the same prepared bed. The plants thrive best in full-sun locations, in soils that drain well and don't become soggy or waterlogged. Take the time to properly amend the site and minimize problems after the rose is in the ground.

Soil test kit
Lime
Compost or leaf mulch
Superphosphate fertilizer
Spade or power tiller

Instructions

- 1
  Test the soil one to two months before you plant, following the instructions in the soil pH test kit. Roses need a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.
- 2
  Spread lime over the site in the amount recommended by the test to bring the pH into the desired range. Till the lime into the top 12 inches of soil. It takes at least four weeks for the lime to alter the pH.
- 3
  Cover the soil with a 2-inch layer of compost or leaf mulch. Use 4 inches if you have clay soil that drains poorly.
- 4
  Apply 3 pounds of a superphosphate fertilizer, such as a 0-20-0 or 0-45-0 blend, over every 100 square feet of rose bed. A phosphate fertilizer encourages healthy root growth that helps the rose plant establish quickly after planting.
- 5
  Till the compost and fertilizer into the top 12 inches of soil. Turn the amendments in with a spade or use a power tiller to incorporate the amendments with the soil.

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