Moss Rose Rosa 'William Lobb' (CeMo)

Water

The Moss Rose requires consistent moisture, so gardeners should water when the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually translates to about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week, depending on climate conditions. Deep, infrequent watering is preferred to encourage deep root growth. During hot, dry spells, watering frequency should be increased, whereas cooler, rainy periods may require less. Always avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf diseases.

Light

The Moss Rose thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flower production. The ideal spot is an open area without shade from trees or buildings, ensuring the plant gets plenty of light throughout the day.

Temperature

The Moss Rose can survive temperatures as low as 20°F but performs best when the temperature ranges between 60°F and 70°F. Extreme heat can stress the plant, so during hot summer days above 90°F, providing some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching.

Pruning

Pruning the Moss Rose is essential to maintain plant health and encourage vigorous growth. Deadheading spent blooms and cutting back in late winter or early spring encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Prune every year, removing dead or diseased wood and up to one third of the plant to shape it and promote new growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Moss Rose, also known as Rosa 'William Lobb', thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good mix would include one part loam, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Regularly amend soil with compost to maintain fertility.

Repotting

Moss Rose, or Rosa 'William Lobb', generally does not need frequent repotting as they are outdoor shrubs. However, they may require transplanting every 2-3 years if grown in containers, preferably in the spring when they are not in active bloom.

Humidity & Misting

Moss Rose or Rosa 'William Lobb' is adaptable to a range of humidity conditions and does not require special humidity adjustments. Average outdoor humidity levels are generally suitable for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Not ideal for indoor growth; requires sun, space.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, fertile well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Rosa 'William Lobb', commonly known as Moss Rose, begins with seed germination when soil temperature and moisture levels are suitable. Seedlings emerge and develop into young plants, establishing a root system and foliage through vegetative growth. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering phase typically in late spring or early summer, producing fragrant, purple-pink flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, flowers develop into fruit known as hips, which contain seeds for the next generation. During the fall, the plant prepares for dormancy by slowing down growth and transferring energy to the roots; in winter, the plant lies dormant, conserving energy until the return of favorable growing conditions in spring. Each year, the perennial Moss Rose can go through a similar cycle of growth, blooming, and dormancy, gradually becoming larger and more robust with each season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Rosa 'William Lobb', also known as the Moss Rose, is commonly propagated through softwood cuttings. This method is the most popular because it is straightforward and tends to have a high success rate. The best time to take softwood cuttings is in late spring to early summer when new shoots are growing but not yet mature. Cuttings should be about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long and should include at least three sets of leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to expose the nodes, as this is where the roots will develop. It is advantageous to dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder before planting it in a well-draining growing medium. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm, shaded environment until roots have established, which typically takes several weeks.