Is it safe to start a garden near mature rose bushes?

by Jennifer
(Kingsville TX)

I am starting a vegetable garden in an area where I have mature rose bushes growing. Will this be a problem with either of them? How far from the bush should I start planting?

ANSWER:

As long as the rose bushes don't shade your garden vegetables, it should be fine. Just keep out of the rose bush roots (2-3 feet away from the outer edge of the bush).

Some of your vegetable plants will grow quite large, so be sure to leave enough space that you can get to them without getting poked by your roses!

Avoid using an insecticide, or pesticide on your roses while next to your garden, unless it is something that is also safe for use on a vegetable garden.