I read about this method a while back, tried it and it seemed to work. Put a plastic bag like a grocery bag over it, secure it so that it doesnt blow off. Water the plant well - the water will make condensation after a couple of days, like a greenhouse effect. Hard to say how long it would take, but I have had really good luck with this method. Otherwise....it will probably start leafing out when its ready, but the baggie method might help it along. Good luck!
Judith

If your rose has only been in the ground for a few months, it is busy growing roots. It will add top growth when it can move nutrients and moisture up from the roots to the top growth.

Personally, I think it's best to let the rose do it's own thing until it is truly established. You end up with a much stronger and more vigorous plant in the long run, if it likes your soil, your climate and the type of culture you give to it. Not all roses will take off a be productive immediately.

In fact, I generally do not allow my newly planted roses to bloom for the first year. I want the plant to put most of its energy into growing a good root system.

Since there are a lot of right ways to grow roses, others may disagree with the cultural practice I just mentioned.

Smiles,
Lyn

I've heard of the bag method too but I generally agree with Lyn. The rose will bud out when it's ready to.

Don't put a plastic bag over the bush in full sun. You can EASILY cook the thing in the resulting steam. If the plant was potted and you could do it in dappled light, it would be much better, but you would be amazed how quickly it can get REALLY hot inside a sealed plastic bag in full sun. Kim

It is still only March. Why would you want to force it? It will leaf out when it's ready to do so. Roses are like every other living things--individuals.

I want to thank eveyone for their input. I will let nature take it's course. My other 45 in the back are covered with buds (I counted 40 buds on the Chrysler Imperial, one of my only body bag roses) so I'll practice patience on this one.