Caring for your roses
Caring for roses involves several essential steps to ensure they thrive and produce abundant, beautiful blooms. Here’s our guide to keeping your garden rosy;
Planting – Choose a site with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sun is ideal to dry off dew and prevent fungal diseases.
Soil – Plant roses in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Amend soil with compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage.
Spacing – Provide adequate space between plants (typically 2-3 feet) to ensure good air circulation, which helps prevent disease.
Watering – Water roses deeply but infrequently, aiming for about 1-2 inches per week. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease.
Mulching – Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Feeding – Feed roses with a balanced rose fertilizer or a slow-release formula. Apply fertilizer in early spring when new growth begins and again after the first bloom cycle. We have some great organic fertilisers such as fish emulsion and bone meal for a natural nutrient boost.
Pruning – Prune roses in early spring (just as buds begin to swell) to remove dead or damaged wood, shape the plant, and encourage new growth. Make cuts at a 45-degree angle about 1/4 inch above an outward-facing bud.
Deadheading – Remove spent flowers throughout the blooming season to encourage continuous blooming and improve the plant’s appearance.
Pest and Disease Control – Watch for common pests such as aphids and spider mites. If you see any pesky pests you can try to introduce beneficial insects like ladybirds for control.
Diseases – Prevent fungal diseases like black spot and powdery mildew by ensuring good air circulation, watering at the base, and using fungicidal sprays if needed. Remove and dispose of any infected leaves.
Winter Protection
In colder seasons, protect roses from winter damage. Mound soil or mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots. For climbing roses, tie canes to supports and cover them with burlap or horticultural fleece.
It’s a good idea to buy some stakes when you buy your roses as they provide support for climbing or tall rose varieties.
Hopefully with the right care, your roses will be healthy and ready to produce beautiful blooms year after year.
