Cooper's Rose Rosa 'Cooperi' (Ra)

Water

For the Iceberg rose, water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth, typically requiring about 1 inch of water per week. During active growth in spring and summer, you might water once every week or as needed when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. In the hotter months, you could increase watering to twice per week. Adjust your watering based on rainfall, and always aim to water early in the morning at the base of the plant to minimize leaf wetness and reduce the risk of disease. Each watering should equate to roughly 2-3 gallons to ensure it reaches the root zone.

Light

The Iceberg rose thrives in full sun, meaning it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this plant would be in an area that offers bright, unfiltered sunlight throughout the day to promote strong growth and abundant blooms. Avoid planting in areas with significant shade, as insufficient light can lead to poor flowering and increased susceptibility to diseases.

Temperature

The Iceberg rose is best suited to a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 35°F and 90°F. It can survive minimal exposure to temperatures just below freezing but should be protected from prolonged cold below 35°F. The ideal growing temperature is between 65°F and 75°F. To thrive, this rose typically requires a winter dormancy period with cooler temperatures than during the active growing season.

Pruning

Prune the Iceberg rose to maintain its shape, remove dead wood, and encourage healthy growth and flowering. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Throughout the growing season, deadheading spent blooms encourages additional flowering. Prune back by about one-third of the plant's height, focusing on cutting back to outward-facing buds to promote an open, vase-like structure.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Cooper roses require well-draining soil mixed with organic compost. Ideal soil pH for Cooper roses is between 6.0-6.5. A mix of two-thirds loam and one-third peat moss or compost provides a good balance of drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Cooper roses typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years. Ensure the new pot has ample room for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Cooper roses thrive best in moderate humidity levels, typically around 40-60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light and good airflow for Cooper roses indoors.

• Outdoor

  Plant Cooper roses in full sun with well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Rosa 'Cooperi', commonly known as Cooper's Rose, starts its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in suitable conditions—moderate temperatures and well-drained soil. Following germination, it enters a vegetative phase, establishing a root system and producing shoots that will grow into stems and leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering phase, typically in late spring to early summer, where it develops the characteristic blooms that may repeat throughout the growing season in multiple flushes. After pollination, which can be facilitated by insects such as bees, the flowers form hips (fruit) that contain seeds, ensuring the continuation of the species. In the autumn, the plant prepares for dormancy by reducing its metabolic activities and may shed leaves in regions with colder climates. The plant resumes its growth cycle with the return of warmer temperatures in spring, coming out of dormancy and beginning the cycle again with new vegetative growth leading to flowering.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Rosa 'Cooperi', often known as the Cooper's Rose, is best propagated through softwood cuttings. This method typically takes place during late spring to early summer when the new growth is still soft and green, usually about a month after blooming. Cuttings should be about 6 to 8 inches long and have several leaves present. It's crucial to cut just below a leaf node, as this is where the rooting hormone will be most concentrated. The lower leaves should be removed and the cut end dipped in a rooting hormone powder or solution to encourage root development. Then, the cutting is planted in a moist soilless potting mix, ensuring that at least two nodes are buried where the leaves were removed. The cutting should then be placed in indirect light and kept at a consistent moisture level until roots develop, which could take several weeks.