How to Acclimate Roses

Plants grown in a greenhouse must be acclimated carefully before planting or placing them outdoors. This is especially true in hot or sunny locations. Many species should never be grown in full sun. Before purchasing a plant, learn about its sun requirements. Knowing the plants requirements can avoid any damage to the plant by incorrectly giving it the wrong conditions.

NOTE: This is part 2 in a series of 11 articles. For a complete background on how to grow roses, we recommend starting from the beginning.

Acclimation Steps for Potted Plants

If you receive new plants or trees from Stark Bro’s in a pot that have already begun to grow tender, leafy foliage, it’s likely that they were cultivated in our greenhouses. To ensure these plants and trees are acclimatized (or hardened off) before planting outdoors, we recommend following these steps:

  • Once your plants and trees arrive, unbox them and leave them in the pots they arrived in. Place them in a semi-shaded spot outdoors, such as a back porch, for a day or so. Then, move them to a sunnier area. While you should water your plants upon arrival, it’s also essential to allow the soil to dry out to promote the hardening-off process.
  • Keep an eye on the foliage; if you notice signs of leaf injury before planting, move those plants or trees to a more shaded area with filtered sunlight and protection from harsh winds. Adequate air movement is crucial for hardening off the plant outdoors. Cool air helps toughen the tender new growth, but bring plants back inside at night if temperatures are expected to drop to or below freezing.
  • After acclimating your plants and trees for 2-3 days, and if the weather conditions are suitable, you can plant them in their permanent location outdoors. Your new plants and trees should be able to handle conditions, provided that soil temperatures remain above 50ºF. Planting on a cloudy day will typically yield the best results.

It’s worth noting that these are general recommendations. Your specific growing environment may require some slight adjustments to these guidelines since different plants may take more or less time to harden off. External factors such as weather conditions, individual plants, and your location can also impact the process. If outdoor conditions are too harsh, it’s best to keep your potted plants near a sunny window, water them, and treat them like houseplants. You can then begin the process of hardening off your plants when the weather improves.

Latest Articles & Videos

Article imageArticle image Winter Preparation for Fig Trees: Cutting Back and Mulching Fig trees are beloved for their sweet fruit, but they can be sensitive to freezing temperatures, especially in colder climates. Proper winter preparation ensures the tree survives the harsh weather and grows back vigorously in the spring. One effective method involves cutting back the branches and insulating the tree base with mulch. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Planting in pots indoorsPlanting in pots indoors Indoor Gardening with Purpose: Fresh Ingredients Year-Round Imagine walking into your home and being greeted by the vibrant greenery of your very own indoor garden. With aromatic herbs, fresh ingredients, and even small fruiting plants, indoor gardening can turn any space into a productive and inviting haven. Whether you’re looking to save on grocery costs, enjoy a steady supply of organic produce, or simply find joy in gardening throughout the year, growing indoors is a rewarding way to make the most of your space.
Article imageArticle image House Plants: Benefits, Top Picks, and Care Tips House plants aren’t just for looks—they’re living companions that enhance our homes! Whether you're a plant mom or plant dad who wants to bring nature inside, house plants offer health benefits, create calming atmospheres, and add charm to every room. Let’s dive into the many ways house plants can enhance your well-being and explore the best plant options for your lighting conditions.
Rooted in ServiceRooted in Service The Stark Bro's Story of Leadership in Gardening Excellence At Stark Bro’s, we’re proud to be veteran-owned and veteran-operated, bringing the values of service and dedication directly into the heart of gardening. With over 200 years of history, we know that the strongest roots grow from a commitment to quality, integrity, and community. Our leadership upholds these principles, guiding every plant we nurture and every customer we serve. Here, we don’t just grow fruit trees; we grow relationships and legacy.

Tools & Supplies for Roses