When buying roses, you can choose between bare root roses and potted roses. But what is the difference and what suits your garden plans best? In this blog, we explain it using advantages, tips, and practical considerations.

What are bare root roses?

Bare root roses are roses delivered without soil or container. You plant them directly in the open ground, preferably between October and March. During this dormant period, roses focus entirely on developing their roots.

Advantages of bare root roses:

• Stronger root development: when planted in October, the rose roots deeper into the soil. This ensures a healthier and stronger plant in the long term.

• Less water needed during dry periods thanks to deeper rooting.

• Sharp price: bare root roses are on average €6 to €8 cheaper than potted roses.

• Fast and easy planting: you don't have to dig as deep and the plant establishes faster.

• More environmentally friendly: less packaging material, no plastic pots.

• Wide selection of special varieties at the grower.

At Belle Epoque, you can also pick up bare root roses on location this year in winter – one day per week or by appointment. Convenient for those who want to choose themselves and get started quickly in the garden.

Note: even in winter, you must water newly planted bare roots well, especially if it is dry.

What are potted roses?

Potted roses are available year-round and already have a developed root system. They are sturdy, can be planted outside the planting season, and are especially popular in spring.

Advantages of potted roses:

• Immediately visually appealing: you see the color, the leaves, and often already the flower.

• Choosing by scent and color is easier, especially with well-known varieties from, for example, David Austin or Belle Epoque.

• Plant whenever you want, even in summer.

• Ideal for terrace, balcony, or as a gift.

Potted roses are attractive to look at and buy during the gardening season. Especially for those who prefer to see a ready-made plant before planting it in the ground.

Which rose suits your garden plans?

If you want to invest smartly and sustainably in strong, future-proof roses, then bare root is the best choice. You benefit from lower prices, better root growth, and a strong start. If you want something for immediate results or are giving a rose as a gift, then a potted rose is a nice option.

Tip from the grower:

Plant your bare root roses on a cloudy day, give them enough water, and lightly cover the soil with compost or leaves. This way, the root dries out less quickly and your rose gets off to a good start.

Buying roses from the grower

Whether you choose bare root roses or potted roses: at a specialized rose grower like Belle Epoque in Aalsmeer, you'll find a unique assortment of English roses, shrub roses, and climbing roses. Directly from the grower and always with personal advice.

👉 View our range online or make an appointment to pick up your bare root roses yourself this winter.