Top dressing & companion planting

Top dressing & companion planting

Whether you're planting bare root roses in winter or potted roses in summer, the process is the same. The final step is to top dress and add your companion plants.

Top dressing the tub with manure

For top dressing, always look for peat-free compost from high-quality sources like Melcourt — it's worth the investment. Cover the union and tuck any pieces of wool into the side of the container to hide it.

I'm planting

• Salvia x jamensis 'California Sunset'

Other companion plants to consider:

• Alliums
• Geraniums
• Lavender

Planting the salvias

It is helpful to plant a few companions around the rose that will improve health without competing, like Salvia x jamensis. Plant three sage leaf salvias in a triangle around the base of the rose. Firm the soil around the salvias down and level the soil with your hands. Move the container to its final spot before watering.

Feeding and watering

• Since you won't be moving these large pots around, consider installing irrigation, as roses appreciate regular watering. If you're watering by hand, use a full watering can at least twice a week.
• Add a liquid feed to your watering can once per month for an additional nutrient boost in spring and summer.
• Each spring, top dress again with a few inches of organic manure to replenish the soil.

Further reading

• The Pottery Gardener by Arthur Parkinson

Learn more about Arthur's journey in container gardening to gain inspiration for your own space.

• The New Romantic Garden by Jo Thompson

Filled with ideas on how to adapt traditional garden design elements for today from one of the UK's leading garden designers.