Could anyone suggest the maximum time a David Austin bare root rose can remain in it's packaging, unopened. It came today, but I won't have time to pot it up for 2 or 3 days unless it's absolutely necessary. Many thanks.
This is from the David Austin website on the Q&A page asking what to do if unable to plant bare root roses at once:
A: If less than 3 weeks delay…
Store in a frost-free, cool place such as your garden shed or garage. Bare root plants will keep for up to three weeks tightly sealed in the paper sack and polythene bag without a problem. You may see new growth, particularly for orders delivered in March or later - this is a good sign.
If more than 3 weeks delay…
If you are expecting a longer delay before planting it is worth considering heeling in your plants. To do this, simply remove your plants from their paper sack and polythene bag, leave in their bundle tied together and dig a hole large enough to take the roots of your plant. Replace the soil to cover the roots. Water if conditions are going to be dry
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A: If less than 3 weeks delay…
Store in a frost-free, cool place such as your garden shed or garage. Bare root plants will keep for up to three weeks tightly sealed in the paper sack and polythene bag without a problem. You may see new growth, particularly for orders delivered in March or later - this is a good sign.
If more than 3 weeks delay…
If you are expecting a longer delay before planting it is worth considering heeling in your plants. To do this, simply remove your plants from their paper sack and polythene bag, leave in their bundle tied together and dig a hole large enough to take the roots of your plant. Replace the soil to cover the roots. Water if conditions are going to be dry