David Austin Windermere™ Rose Shrub

1. Planting: Choose a location with well-draining soil and at least six hours of sunlight each day. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball, and gently loosen any tightly bound roots. Place the rose in the center of the hole, ensuring that the graft union (where the stem emerges from the roots) is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and water well to settle the soil around the roots.

2. Watering: Water the Windermere™ Rose deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong root system. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall. It's best to water in the early morning to minimize evaporation and prevent fungal diseases.

3. Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, removing any dead or damaged wood, as well as about one-third of the plant to promote new growth. Focus on maintaining an open center to improve air circulation, which helps reduce the risk of diseases.

4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced rose fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins, and again in midsummer to support ongoing flowering. Be sure to follow package instructions for application rates, and consider adding organic compost to the base of the plant to provide additional nutrients.