A guide to growing these popular plants indoors.
Ever see those pots of miniature roses in the store?
Have you gotten one as a gift only to have it quickly die?
Ever wonder if its really possible to grow roses as a houseplant?
The answer is maybe, if you might provide the proper conditions.
It does take some work and dedication however.
First off, youll want to purchase the most compact sizes.
Miniature roses range in size from five inches to as much as four feet!
For indoor growing, smaller is better.
Likeregular roses, the miniature varieties require a lot of sunlight.
Six to eight hours a day is best.
They also require moderate heat.
Temperatures above 60F are best to prevent dormancy.
Despite their small size, miniature roses require the same conditions as their larger counterparts.
This means lots of light (at least 6-8 hours).
A southern facing window will provide more light than northern or eastern and is ideal.
A grow-light will work as a substitute, if necessary.
Indoor roses also need good drainage to deliver nutrients and flush out salts.
Another thing important to successfully growing roses indoors is air circulation.
They need good circulation.
Use a soft cloth or artists paintbrush to clean dust off the leaves.
Like all roses, miniature roses do require a period of dormancy.
This can be achieved by placing them in an unheated basement or garage from late fall until January.
Place them in a sunny south-facing window or under grow lights and they will soon begin producing new foliage.
