When you buy a rose plant, it often looks nothing like the beautiful plant you imagine blooming in your yard. Instead, the rose you purchase may be bundled in a plastic bag filled with sawdust or peat moss and have short, leafless canes. It may even come bare root, resembling a thorny dead stick. But these roses are not nearly as fragile as they appear. However, a little extra effort at planting time to prepare your rose's future home will pay off through a healthier plant and more blooms.

Choose a site with full sun. Six or more hours of sun is recommended. Some roses will grow in partial shade, but most roses bloom their best if they are in a spot that gets sun all day. The exception to this rule is when growing roses in areas with extremely hot growing seasons and limited water. In this case, your roses will appreciate the relief offered by some afternoon shade.

Roses are not fussy about soil, but since they are heavy feeders, a rich loam is ideal. The soil pH can be slightly acidic to neutral (6.5 to 7.0). It is usually advisable to work in several inches of organic matter, especially if you have poor soil or heavy clay. Make sure the soil you plant your roses in has good drainage. Roses need regular deep watering, but their roots will rot if left to sit in wet soil. Avoid planting roses under trees, both due to shade as well as possible damage from falling branches. Choose a site that's protected from wind, as strong winds can damage the growth of the plant.