TAKE CARE OF ROSES NOW FOR MORE FLOWERS LATER

Anthony Reed areed@lorman.alcorn.edu

With the arrival of warm summer temperature, interest in rose gardens often wanes because the flowers are small, of poor quality and the colors are faded.  Proper care at this time will insure attractive foliage and an abundance of flowers throughout out the fall and early winter.  Strong healthy plants also are better able to withstand rugged winter conditions than those weakened by poor cultural practices and neglect.

Fertilizing:

Roses are heavy users of nutrients and require regular applications of option growth in the spring, apply fertilizer at the rate of 1 1/4 pound of 8-8-8 or similar formation per 100 square feet.  The soil should be moist before applying fertilizer.  Spread the fertilizer over the surface of the bed at the prescribed rate and work it into the surface of the mulch with light cultivation.  Water the bed thoroughly after applying fertilizer.  Repeat the fertilizer application every 6 to 8 weeks.

Watering:

For optimum growth and flower production, avoid moisture deficiency or over watering.  Frequency of watering depends on soil type, climate condition, the growth stage and development.  During the period of drought and high temperature, watering may be needed every 3 to 4 days in a sandy soil.  Roses may be irrigated by flood or sprinkler irrigation.  If a sprinkler system is used, schedule watering early in the morning to allow foliage to dry before exposure to the hot sun.  This method also requires more frequent applications of fungicide to protect against black spots and mildew diseases.  The most efficient use of irrigations water is obtained with a soaker hose, thoroughly wetting the soil depth of 8 to 10 inches at each application.

Mulching:

Using a 2-inch layer of mulching material, such as pine straw, cotton burs, shredded bark, sugar cane pulp, granulated peat moss or other loose organic material, is an excellent cultural practice. It conserves moisture, keeps soil insulated against heat and reduces weed growth.

Disease and insect control:

the two major rose disease, black spots and mildew, should be prevented rather than attempting to control them after they occur.  Begin the spray schedule as soon as new growth commences in the spring and repeat application at intervals of 7 to 10 days throughout the growing season.

Rose Grooming:

As the flowers fade and the pedals fall, remove the spent flowers.  Otherwise, food and energy will be expended on useless production rather than new growth and continued flower production.  Use sharp shears for removing the old flowers, making the cut just above the second five - leaf let leaf above the main cane or branch.