David Austin Gertrude Jekyll® Rose Shrub

1. Planting: Choose a location with well-draining soil and at least six hours of sunlight daily. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and the same depth, allowing ample room for the roots to spread. Amend the soil with organic matter if necessary and place the shrub in the hole at the same depth it was growing in the pot. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.

2. Watering: Water the Gertrude Jekyll® Rose deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root development. Aim for approximately an inch of water per week, more during exceptionally hot or dry periods. Be cautious not to water the leaves to minimize the risk of fungal diseases, as this rose prefers its foliage to stay dry.

3. Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged wood and slender, weak stems. Maintain an open center for good air circulation and encourage healthy blooms by cutting back stems to promote new growth, focusing on removing about one-third of the plant's overall height.

4. Fertilizing: Feed the Gertrude Jekyll® Rose with a balanced rose fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to promote healthy growth and prolific blooms. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for application rates, and make sure to water the plant well after fertilizing to help the nutrients soak into the soil.