How To Care For Roses

The best way to care for your roses

Roses are the most popular and beloved flowers in the world. Their beauty, scent and meaning make them a favourite for gardens, bouquets and special occasions. But rose care can seem daunting for beginners. With the right techniques, you can keep your roses healthy and happy.

This guide covers everything you need to know about rose care from planting and pruning to watering and fertilising.

Planting Roses

For healthy, happy roses choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Roses love at least 6 hours of sun a day.

To plant your roses:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
2. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure into the soil for extra nutrients.
3. Gently remove the rose plant from its container and place it in the hole making sure the graft union is at ground level.
4. Fill the hole with soil and water well to help the roots establish.

Watering Roses

Roses need regular deep watering, especially in hot dry conditions. Water at least once a week and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Tips for watering:

• Don’t overhead water as this can cause fungal diseases.
• Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water at the base of the plant.
• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilising Roses

Roses are heavy feeders and need regular feeding to encourage strong growth and lots of blooms.

How to fertilise roses:

• Use a balanced rose fertiliser such as 10-10-10 or 12-12-12.
• Apply in early spring when new growth appears.
• Feed again in mid summer to support continued flowering.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid over fertilising which can cause too much leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning Roses

Pruning keeps roses healthy, encourages new growth and improves air circulation.

When and how to prune:

• Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
• Remove dead, diseased or damaged branches.
• Cut back old wood to promote new shoots.
• Use sharp, clean pruners to cut at a 45 degree angle.
• Deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering.

Pest and Disease Control:

Roses can be affected by pests and diseases like aphids, powdery mildew and black spot.

How to keep your roses healthy:

• Check regularly for signs of pests or disease like yellowing leaves or black spots.
• Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Use fungicides or sulphur based sprays for fungal infections.
• Keep the garden clean by removing fallen leaves and debris.
• Don’t overhead water to prevent fungal diseases.

Know how to care for your roses …

Rose care takes time, effort and the right techniques. Follow these simple tips:

Plant in a sunny spot, Water deeply, Fertilise correctly, Prune regularly, Manage pests and you’ll have healthy happy roses year after year.