MRS FAQs Post: May 5, 2005

Cal Birtic, May 5, 2005 I will be adding a new rose to my garden this weekend,Rugosa, Blanc Double de Coubert, and was wondering if there are any special planting instructions or soil conditioners I should use? thanks, cal

5/5/05 Hello Cal, You will love your new Blanc Double de Coubert! It is a wonderful rose. You do not need to do anything different in planting it, just the usual. Hole big as a bushel basket, amended soil, a shot (1/2 cup) of Epsom Salts, some of the new product for transplant shock to give it a good less stressful start (I use the old standby SuperThrive, but there are others on the market). Remember BDdC is a rugosa, do not use chemical sprays on it. Rugosas do not like to be sprayed on the whole. There are some hybrids that will take some, but better safe than sorry with rugosas. Best of luck with your new rose, I am sure you will enjoy it very much! Joan Gotlibson MRS Member

This is a great rose. There is no special planting for this Rugosa other than good soil with drainage and perhaps a bit of compost. It is most likely "own root" rather than grafted. Rugosas in general are sensitive to sprays and concentrated fertilizers. I would also place any superphosphate, etc. in the planting hole, as often done with Hybrid Teas, and I would not spray it later in the season. Part of the beauty of Rugosa roses is their hardiness and the fact that they do not need much care. Jerry Cinnamon MRS Member