moving rose bushes while a sewer line is being replaced?

Question

I live on Long Island N.Y and the ground is not frozen

Answer 1

This is not a good time of year for transplanting but it sounds like you don’t have a choice. For the rose’s sake, move it once; don’t move it back when the work is done. You can do that in spring after the soil has settled and is no longer so wet that it compacts readily. If this rose is a grandiflora, cut the tall canes down to 4 feet. Using twine, gently bundle the rose during the move to minimize damage to canes. Dig as much of the root system as possible; the fine, vital feeder roots are farthest from the center. Even when dormant, roses need to absorb moisture through feeder roots. Until the ground freezes, it is important that the soil doesn’t dry out. Water as needed. After the ground freezes put 6 inches of loose mulch over the rootball and crown to minimize freeze and thaw cycles. (straw, chopped leaves, pine bark) Wrap it in burlap in the temporary location to protect against drying winter winds. Snow is a great insulator; heap some around the rose. On warmer days, the snow melt puts moisture back in the ground. Your rose will be at risk for heaving out of the ground with freezing/thawing cycles. If you see this, gently press a foot all around the base to re-anchor it. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/roses/how-to-transplant-roses-tips-for-transplanting-a-rose-bush.htm