Growing roses is both an art and a science: as my gardening aunt used to say, ?…it’s six of one and half a dozen of the other!? As a rose grower myself and author of a gardening website, I get many questions about why a certain rose bush has failed or what a person might be doing wrong. Over time, these many mistakes people make, began to fall into five major categories. The five major rose growing mistakes that most people could avoid! 1. Planting in the wrong location: Before you actually dig the hole for your new rose bush, consider the location. It will need six hours of good light including some time in the sun. It will need healthy soil where water drains well and other plants and trees haven’t taken over with their own roots. Not in the shade of a large tree, or over a concrete pipe or in a pot small enough for a geranium! Tak phen375 e time to choose the right location. 2. Choosing the wrong bush in the first place: My rose bush, Savoy Hotel, grew so large I had to move the neighbors fence! The estimated size was actually on the label when I purchased it, so check how big it will get and plan the space accordingly. Rose bushes are programed to grow to a certain size, not necessarily the height you want, so check the labeling carefully. While doing this check, look up the hardiness of the particular rose. Not all roses grow at minus 20 degrees centigrade in Calgary! Some are very susceptible to certain diseases such as blackspot, and guess what, some rose bushes only bloom once a year! Check these things out BEFORE you purchase. Type of rose, color, scent, size at full growth, hardiness and blooming time: make your choices before you plant, not after. 3.