Seedlings Around Lenten Roses

Q: I have dozens of small seedlings around my Lenten roses. What do I do
now?

A: Transplant the seedlings into a semi-shaded “nurse” bed, just a few inches
apart. Fertilize in late May with a controlled release fertilizer (Osmocote,
Dynamite, etc). Don’t expect much growth this summer but don’t let them dry
out. When the seedlings are four inches tall next April, divide and transplant
them again, spacing them 10 inches apart. Fertilize at planting and again in
June. In early spring of the third year the plants can be moved to their
permanent place in the landscape. They will bloom that year or the year after.