How to Grow and Care for Miniature Roses

Miniatures roses may appear delicate with their tiny 1 to 2 inch blooms, but they are deceiving. Many people mistakenly believe the miniature rose is a miniature bush. This rose gets its name from the size of the bloom, not the size of plant. Many grow to heights of 2 feet or more and can be grown under the same conditions other rose bushes.

Select a Location for Miniature Roses

Select an area for your miniature roses in a location that receives full sun for 6 to 8 hours a day. Planting them in borders or in the front of the garden allows the beauty of these miniature beauties to shine. They are also effective along walkways or in seating areas of your yard.

Prepare the Soil for Miniature Roses

Till the soil to a depth of 8 to 10 inches and remove any rocks or roots in the soil. Spread a 2 to 3 inch layer of compost or well-rotted manure over the soil. Work it into the top 4 to 6 inches with a garden tiller or hand tools.

Planting the Miniature Rose

Plant your miniature rose to its original planting depth. Firm the soil around the base of the rose bush with your hands to secure the plant and remove air pockets.

Watering and Fertilizing

Water thoroughly to saturate the soil to the root level, and keep evenly moist for the first two weeks. Once established, water deeply once a week soaking the soil to the root level. Apply slow-release rose fertilizer in early spring and again at midsummer.

Deadheading Blooms

Deadhead blooms to promote further blooming. Deadheading sends a measure to the plant that it has not produced enough blooms for seed and forces the plant to send out new blooms in an attempt to reproduce.

Winter Protection

Mulch or cover your miniature roses in late fall to prevent winter damage. Roses are susceptible to damage from freezing winds and need some form of protection. A heavy layer of mulch protects roots from heaving during winter freezing and thawing.

Spring Care

Remove mulch or covering in the spring. Trim away old or discolored canes in the spring once new growth resumes.Water thoroughly and apply slow release rose fertilizer.

Overwintering Miniature Roses Inside
Miniature roses can also be grown in pots or containers and moved inside for the winter. Place miniature roses on a sunny windowsill. Some will continue to bloom during the winter, if they receive adequate light.
SOURCES:

Colorado State University Extension: Miniature Roses

Washington State University Extension: Miniature Roses