Field Rose
rosa agrestis
Also known as: ["Wild Rose","Hedge Rose"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Europe and Asia, known for its small, fragrant white or pale pink flowers and red hips.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rosa |
| Botanical Name: | Rosa agrestis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter/early spring; light pruning after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old wood annually.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; avoid over-amending with peat; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates winter cold but needs protection from extreme heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use shade cloth in summer; protect from frost in early spring.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing newly planted roses.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring/early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or liquid is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use morning-cuttings for best results; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above an outward-facing bud; angle cuts to shed water; remove crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/diseased wood; shape plant; encourage airflow; stimulate flowering.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers, pruning saw, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut at correct angle; remove dead/diseased wood first; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; improves soil health and growth.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare soil mix; water plant before repotting; place in shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid overhead watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; topdress with organic matter annually.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows; buds may fail to open; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in harsh winters; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf edges burn; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage in the morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRosa agrestis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks known toxic compounds that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicRosa agrestis is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause toxicity in canines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicRosa agrestis, commonly known as the field rose, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rosa agrestis suitable for beginners?
A: It is moderately challenging to care for, so it is better suited for those with some gardening experience.
Q: Does Rosa agrestis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and hips.
Q: Are the hips of Rosa agrestis edible?
A: The hips are edible and can be used to make jams or teas, but they should be consumed in moderation due to mild toxicity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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