Drift Roses Red Drift®

Sunlight

These sun-loving roses require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce their best blooms.

Watering

Water regularly, especially during the first growing season and hot, dry spells. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Soil

While adaptable, Drift Roses Red Drift® prefer well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, consider amending it with compost or organic matter for optimal drainage.

Mulching

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant (avoiding the stem) to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Refresh the mulch layer as needed throughout the season.

Fertilizing

While not strictly necessary, a balanced rose fertilizer applied every 6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer) can encourage even more blooms.

Pruning

Prune lightly in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead, diseased, or crossed branches to maintain good air circulation and encourage bushier growth.

Winter Care

In colder climates, after the first frost, you can mound a layer of soil or mulch around the base of the plant for extra winter protection. Remove the mounding in spring once the danger of frost has passed.

Upon Arrival

Water your newly arrived rose generously, allowing the water to soak down to the roots. Choose a planting location as described in the “How to Plant” section.

During the First Year

Water your rose regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy. A light application of balanced rose fertilizer every 6 weeks during the growing season can give your rose a boost.

After the First Year

Established Drift Roses Red Drift® are fairly drought tolerant. Water deeply during extended dry periods, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilizing is optional but can be done once a season in early spring to encourage blooms.

Extra Tips

Deadheading spent blooms throughout the season will promote continuous flowering. For bushier growth and better air circulation, prune lightly in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Upon Arrival

No fertilizer is needed upon arrival. Focus on watering your new rose to establish a strong root system.

During the First Year

A light application of a balanced rose fertilizer every 6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer) can encourage more blooms and stronger growth. Opt for a water-soluble fertilizer for easy application and follow the recommended dosage on the product label.

After the First Year

Established Drift Roses Red Drift® are less reliant on fertilizer. You can choose to fertilize once a season in early spring to promote blooms, but it’s not mandatory for healthy growth.

Extra Tips

Always water your rose well before applying fertilizer to avoid burning the roots. Opt for a slow-release fertilizer if you prefer less frequent feeding, following the application instructions on the product label. Remember, over-fertilizing can harm your rose, so “less is more” when it comes to feeding these beauties.

When to Prune

The ideal time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. Look for signs of swelling buds on the canes.

Steps to Prune

Use sharp bypass pruners to remove dead, diseased, or damaged canes. You can also cut back healthy canes by about one-third to half their size. Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle, just above a healthy outward-facing bud.

After Pruning Care

After pruning, remove any debris from around the base of the plant. Apply a fresh layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Water your rose well to encourage new growth.

How much sun do Drift Roses Red Drift® need?

Drift Roses Red Drift® are sun-loving plants and require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce their best blooms. Planting them in a location that receives ample sunlight throughout the day will ensure a vibrant and continuous display of flowers.

Do Drift Roses Red Drift® need a lot of water?

While Drift Roses Red Drift® are fairly drought tolerant once established, they do require regular watering, especially during the first growing season and hot, dry spells. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water deeply at the base of the plant, allowing the water to soak down to the roots.

What kind of soil do Drift Roses Red Drift® prefer?

These roses thrive in well-drained soil with average fertility. If your soil is heavy clay, amending it with compost or organic matter before planting will improve drainage and prevent root rot.

Do I need to fertilize Drift Roses Red Drift®?

Drift Roses Red Drift® are not heavy feeders, but fertilizing can give them an extra boost, especially during the first year. A light application of a balanced rose fertilizer every 6 weeks during the growing season can encourage more blooms and stronger growth. After the first year, fertilizing is optional but can be done once a season in early spring.

How often should I prune Drift Roses Red Drift®?

Drift Roses Red Drift® require minimal pruning to maintain their health and bushy form. However, a light pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges can promote bushier growth and even more blooms. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or damaged canes, and prune healthy canes by about one-third to half their size.

Are Drift Roses Red Drift® winter hardy?

Drift Roses Red Drift® are generally winter hardy in USDA zones 4-11. In colder climates, you can provide extra winter protection by mounding a layer of soil or mulch around the base of the plant after the first frost. Remove the mounding in spring once the danger of frost has passed.

Are Drift Roses Red Drift® deer resistant?

Unfortunately, Drift Roses Red Drift® are not deer resistant. Deer may find the new growth and flower buds appealing. If deer are a problem in your area, you may need to take additional steps to protect your roses, such as using deer fencing or repellents.