How to Grow Bergenia Roses

Plant bergenia roses in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic material and with an alkaline pH. This plant will tolerate partial shade, but thrives in full sun.

Water thoroughly to ensure the soil stays moist, but not saturated. Thorough watering done infrequently is more ideal than short, regular watering.

Water only when the soil begins to dry and use only enough water to penetrate about a foot or the depth of the root system. Avoid overhead watering to prevent the growth of fungus.

Add 2 to 3 tbsp. of 5-10-5 fertilizer to the soil in early spring after pruning. Apply fertilizer to moist soil and work it in, but don’t allow the fertilizer to contact the plant’s foliage or stems.

Repeat fertilizing in June, when your bergenia flowers. If the weather is not hot or dry, apply a third application of fertilizer in mid-August.

Lay down organic mulch such as pine needles or peat moss on damp soil to a depth of 1 to 2 inches during summer months to maintain moisture and to keep your bergenia’s roots cool.

Prune away old or diseased wood at a point just below the damaged portion but above new growth. When pruning, ensure that you leave at least three buds on each cane.

Remove brown, dried or discolored leaves in the spring, but because bergenias are evergreen plants, avoid removing foliage in the fall.

Cut away faded flower stalks right to the ground and cover exposed rhizomes with soil or compost if they push above the ground surface.

Divide your bergenia every three to five years in early spring, particularly if the center of your plant becomes thin.