Rosa Penny Lane

Roses prefer a sunny location (at least 4 to 5 hours of sun per day), but sheltered from the scorching midday sun and strong winds. Roses appreciate loose, well-drained soils that are rich in humus. They prefer slightly acidic soil but will adapt to any garden if the soil is well-prepared and sufficiently fertile.

To plant your rose, work the soil to a depth of 25cm (10in), crumbling the soil and adding an amendment such as dried blood or dehydrated horn. Position your plant, removed from its pot, and cover the top of the root ball with 3cm (1in) of soil. Fill in the hole and water generously to eliminate air pockets. Water regularly for a few weeks to facilitate root establishment. Provide your rose with special rose fertiliser that stimulates plant flowering.

Roses are often stained or unsightly at the end of summer, but this does not affect their development. These spots are not harmful to the rose and are a natural phenomenon.