Is there a way to deal with my rose plant getting bare at the bottom of the stem?

Question

I’ve had these rose plants for abot a year now. and the higher and more shoots they grow, the bottom of the stem gets bare. Is there a way to solve this?

Answer 1

Many plants grown in containers need to be repotted every year or two. The potting mix deteriorates in that time. I think your rose will be happier in a larger container with fresh potting mix. Roses have large root systems that need plenty of room. Roses need full sun but do not like dry soil. When you water, pour in enough so that excess drains out the bottom. (drainage holes are mandatory) To determine when to water next, wiggle a finger into the soil down about 5cm. If the soil is dry at that depth, it is time to water again. Fertilize on a regular basis as the instructions on the fertilizer indicate. Roses are “heavy feeders” and those grown in containers are completely dependent on fertilizer to perform well. When you repot, try to straighten roots that are encircling the old container. If they won’t straighten, it is best to snip off 1 or 2 of the largest encircling roots where they bend. Potting mix should come within 2.5 cm of the top of the container. Gently pack the potting mix as you fill the container to minimize settling. Water thoroughly and keep it in the shade or morning sun only for a few days. It will probably droop and look sad during this time. This is transplant shock and is expected. When it perks back up, return it to full sun. Watch out for mildew and black spot diseases during stretches when the humidity is high.