Rose Garden

Roses Gardens have long been a favorite with royalty. Emperors in 17th century Europe used the rose flower -- from rose petal confetti at feasts to rose water baths -- to flaunt their wealth. Roses have also has been used for medicinal purposes, perfumes, even food throughout the ages.

Sunny spots with well-drained soil are the best homes for a rose garden. The ideal rose garden soil has a pH level -- the amount of acid in the soil -- of 5.5 to 7.0.

The first step to planting your rose garden is to remove soil from an area 18 to 24 inches wide and 24 inches deep. Add organic matter like manure and lime to help nourish the roots of the rose garden. When you're ready to actually plant your roses, soak the roots in water or puddled clay (available in most garden centers or nurseries) for several minutes. Cut off root ends that are broken or damaged -- they'll be hanging by a few hairs. Check with a gardening professional or a gardening encyclopedia about how much spacing to leave between rose plants because it varies by number and variety.

During the first three to four weeks after planting your roses, you should water them often, whenever the top 2 inches of soil feels dry. Once that delicate period has passed, soak the rose garden bed every seven to 10 days. Be sure to water them in the morning and take care to keep the moisture off the leaves to prevent insect and fungus infestation. Fertilize your new rose garden about three months after planting, then should put down 3 to 6 inches of mulch.

Spring is the best time for planting rose gardens. To make sure your rose garden stands out, you can plant other seasonal plants, such as spring bulbs like tulips or daffodils or low-growing summer flowers like marigolds. The best rose gardens are truly treated with tender, loving care. Take the time to take care of your new rose garden.