I am not sure but maybe this will help. My aunt cut a huge chunk of root out of a rose bush that was over 50 years old. Brought it up to me in a bucket...I planted it and for the first year it did nothing but make a root system...then it grew and grew the second year...the 3rd year I got roses....All of my grandfathers roses are decades old and are gorgeous. I am not sure if they get past their prime.
Roses Thanks Michelle and Netty; I guess it depends on whether it's an heirloom or a hybrid. You just can't get the beautiful colors in local nurseries and can't afford the shipping on potted ones. I 'll just see how the ones I planted last year will do for me.
Not sure what you mean by past its prime. I've planted many bareroot roses that have done well. They might have a slower start than a potted rose, but once they develop their root system, they take off and keep up with the other roses in my garden. I plant them in cool weather, well before it gets warm, January/February around here. That way they can settle in a bit before the warm weather hits
Thanks mtahome; That is precisely what I hoped to hear. Must be patient. I've only put some in last year. Thanks
Yes patience is required. the roses will take a long time to create a good root system and then you will see growth above the ground.