sweet briar rose

Sweet Briar Roses (Rosa rubiginosa) should be watered twice a week while they are actively growing. Water deeply, making sure water reaches the roots of the plant, and avoid getting the foliage wet. During hotter months, extra watering may be necessary if the soil becomes dry. When the roses are in bloom, you should reduce the amount of water as this encourages blooms and can help reduce disease. Water in the morning or evening - never in the middle of the day.

Sweet briar rose (Rosa rubiginosa) should receive full sun for optimum growth. This plant species prefers 6-8 hours of sunlight a day, preferably with some morning sun and afternoon shade. It can handle more sun in cooler climates, but too much direct afternoon sun in warmer climates can lead to scorching. Sweet briar rose can handle temperatures down to USDA Hardiness Zone 4b, meaning it can withstand temperatures as low as -25 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sweet briar roses should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Prune out any damaged branches or stems that are not healthy and away from the crown. Thin out the center of the rose bush by removing some of the oldest, thick branches. Prune lightly to shape the bush and open up the center of the plant by cutting back the taller branches. Cutting off the spent blooms from the previous year's flowers will encourage new blooms. To encourage a greater flowering, prune the stems lightly, back to 2 or 3 buds.