David Austin James L. Austin™ Rose Shrub

1. Planting: Choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. Prepare the soil by mixing in compost to ensure good drainage and fertility. Dig a hole that is twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the graft union is level with the soil surface, and gently backfill with soil.

2. Watering: Water the rose deeply once a week, adjusting frequency based on weather conditions. During prolonged dry spells, you may need to water more frequently. Ensure that the soil never becomes waterlogged to avoid root rot. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

3. Pruning: Prune in early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead or damaged wood, and thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation. Aim to maintain an open center for light penetration and air flow, which helps reduce the risk of diseases.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release rose fertilizer in early spring, following package instructions for dosage. This will encourage lush growth and abundant blooms. For best results, you can supplement with a liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season.