Monday, June 22, 2009

Roses in June & July

Roses are experiencing their first flush of bloom right now. Ever blooming roses typically flower in June, July (they take a break in the heat of August) and push one last burst of color in September. Remember roses are a thirsty and hungry plant, so water deeply and feed every other week, with osmocote timed released pellets always at their feet.

Roses can be susceptible to fungus, insect and diseases. The best preventative for a healthy rose is to site in plenty of sun with adequate moisture. When plants are vigorous, they are more able to fend off attacks from nature. When they are finished blooming it is best to dead head roses to encourage new growth. While even rosarians may disagree on where to make that cut, you would be safe to cut back to the first leaflet with 3 leaves cut back to new growth (which is usually reddish in color).

We stop feeding roses in August (all perennials actually) so that they can begin to slow down and gather their reserves for the winter. We also do not dead head the last September bloom to enjoy rose hips in the winter. Some varieties of roses produce hips better than others. Hmmmm, I know humans with the same issue!

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