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Hairy dog rose

Rosa tomentosa · Rosaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around hairy dog rose and prepare for winter.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Blooming
June to July
Adult size
1.5 to 2.5 m in height and width
Growth
Moderate
Hardiness
Very hardy, down to -20 °C
Origin
Temperate and southern Europe
Soil type
Well-drained, fertile

Care

Sunlight

Plant this rose in full sun for at least 6 hours daily to ensure abundant blooming. Part shade is acceptable but will reduce flower production. Avoid overly shaded and windy areas.

Watering

Water regularly during the first year to establish a vigorous root system. Once well-established, this rose is relatively drought-tolerant thanks to its tomentose foliage. Reduce watering in winter during dormancy.

Soil

Choose rich, well-structured and well-draining soil. Work in compost or potting soil at planting time. This rose prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils and dislikes prolonged waterlogging.

Pruning and maintenance

Perform formative pruning in late winter (February-March) to maintain a balanced shape. Remove dead or crossing branches. Light pruning after flowering encourages regular, harmonious branching.

Fertilizer

Apply balanced or rose-specific fertilizer in spring. Reapply after flowering to support possible reblooming. Reduce applications from September onward to avoid stimulating new growth before winter.

Pests and diseases

This hardy rose is generally resistant to common fungal diseases. Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew. Inspect regularly for aphids in spring and treat if necessary with gentle methods.

Did you know?

Rosa tomentosa, known as the 'downy rose' because of its stems and petioles covered with fine downy pubescence, was once used in traditional herbal medicine for its hips, which are rich in vitamin C. This wild rose remains an excellent choice for cottage hedgerows, where its delicate pale pink flowers and scarlet berries brighten the autumn landscape.

Where to buy it

Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.