Q.Iceberg climbing rose
Hello. I have an iceberg climbing rose in a large terracotta pot. It is from my dad’s house so it’s very sentimental and I would like it to stay in the pot. I will plant it when I have a house with a proper garden.
Is it possible to keep it pruned so that it can stay in the pot for a couple of years?
What’s the best way to look after it.
It is possible to grow an Iceberg rose in a container but the one it is currently in is too small. If it has been in this pot for some time, look for one that is 16 inches deep and 15 inches in diameter. It isn't unusual to have to repot container roses every 2 years to accommodate the growing root mass and to replenish the deteriorating potting mix. There should be potting mix almost to the pot's rim. Don't use terra cotta if you live where winter freezes are an issue; moisture absorbed by the terra cotta will cause the pot to crack. It is best to repot when the plant is dormant. Gently wash off the soil. Try to straighten roots that are going around the outside edge of the container. If they can't be straightened or won't fit into the new container while straight, it is best to trim them until they fit and are straight. Make sure to clean your secateurs first. Don't skimp on the quality of your potting mix and don't use regular soil. If your area gets lots of rainfall, add 1 Cup of extra perlite to the potting mix to speed drainage. You will need rose food; try to find one for container roses. Your rose needs a minimum of 6 hr of direct sunlight daily. It will not thrive indoors. Routine rose pruning is done in early spring as the leaf buds begin to swell - before you see leaves on the plant. However, any time you notice dead, diseased or damaged canes, they should be removed right away. They are more easily penetrated by insects and disease than healthy canes. Here is an article on growing roses in containers: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/roses/container-roses-growing-roses-in-pots.htm
There are many videos on how to care for roses and the RHS has a very thorough website that goes over all aspects of rose care. https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=278
