Think you need a big garden to grow stunning David Austin roses? Think again! With the right tips and a little care, you can enjoy beautiful blooms right from your patio, balcony, or backyard. I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about growing roses in containers (on my sixth year) — the successes, the lessons, and the simple tricks that made all the difference. Let’s get growing!
As a reminder, these are tips that have worked for me in my journey with roses, and I hope they work for you too, should you choose to use them:
No. 1 Select the Right Rose Variety
Not every rose variety is suited for container gardening. Fortunately, David Austin Roses makes it easy by clearly identifying varieties that perform well in pots. Choosing the right type from the beginning sets you up for success.
No. 2 Choose an Appropriately Sized Pot
While I initially started with 18-inch pots (newbie mistake), I now use 24-inch containers as a standard. A larger container not only provides ample space for root development but also reduces the need for frequent repotting as the rose matures.
No. 3 Ensure Proper Drainage
Good drainage is critical. Roses dislike “wet feet,” so make sure your containers have adequate drainage holes. I personally like to add a layer of gravel at the bottom before adding soil — a step not everyone follows, but one that has consistently helped me maintain healthier plants.
No. 4 Select the Right Container Material
In climates like the Midwest, where summers can be intense, choosing the right pot material matters. I have used plastic and clay-fiber containers, as they retain moisture better than traditional terracotta, which tends to dry out rapidly. In areas with extreme seasonal fluctuations like Minnesota, durability is also key, making plastic an excellent choice.
That being said, I prefer terracotta, even if it requires more watering, because it is more breathable, and more precautions in winter to protect from extreme temperatures.
No. 5 Planting Techniques
When planting bare-root roses, I highly recommend following David Austin’s excellent tutorial. For potted roses, simply plant them at the same depth they were growing in their nursery container. Always water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
No. 6 Maintain Consistent Watering
Container roses dry out faster than those planted in the ground. I regularly check the moisture level by inserting a finger into the soil; if the top 1–2 inches are dry, it’s time to water. Consistent moisture is crucial, but avoid allowing the soil to become waterlogged.
No. 7 Fertilizing and Composting
To support healthy growth, I apply a granular, time-release fertilizer every 4–6 weeks. Although I previously used David Austin’s rose food (which is sadly no longer available on their website), there are many excellent alternatives. I also incorporate foliar feeding with Neptune’s Harvest Seaweed Plant Food, and while they now offer a rose-specific formula, I have yet to try it.
One of the most important steps when planting—especially with bare root plants—is adding a generous layer of compost. It gives them a strong, healthy start, especially after the stress of shipping. Since I don’t currently have space to make my own, one of my go-to options is Espoma’s Organic Land & Sea compost. I’ve found my roses absolutely thrive with the boost of marine nutrients it provides.
No. 8 Encourage Strong Root Development
Incorporating mycorrhizal fungi at planting time promotes robust root systems. I used to rely on the formulation offered by David Austin, but have since found a comparable alternative after it was discontinued.
No. 9 Monitor Sun Exposure
While most roses thrive in full sun, certain David Austin varieties — such as Emily Brontë and The Wedgwood Rose — perform better with some afternoon shade, particularly during the hot Midwestern summers. Pay close attention to your plants and adjust their placement if needed.
No. 10 Managing Pests Organically
Container-grown roses can still fall victim to pests, just like those planted in the ground. Here in the Midwest, one of the biggest challenges, come end of May and June, are Japanese beetles — they seem to arrive in armies every summer! I’ve found that using BeetleJus!, an organic treatment, works very well to keep them under control without harming beneficial insects. I used it last year for the first time and worked beautifully for me.
Aside from Japanese beetles, container roses may occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, and thrips. To manage these pests organically, I recommend:
Spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil (especially under the leaves).
Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs, which feed on aphids and mites.
Regularly checking your roses so you can catch any issues early before they become a serious problem.
Maintaining healthy, well-watered, and well-fed plants also naturally boosts your roses’ resistance to pests — a strong rose is much less inviting to opportunistic bugs!
Final Thoughts
Growing David Austin roses in containers can be such a rewarding experience, no matter where you garden. With a little care, patience, and the right techniques, you’ll be amazed at how beautifully your roses can thrive. Remember, every gardener’s journey is a little different — don’t be afraid to experiment, learn along the way, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Happy growing, and may your pots overflow with blooms!
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