The ABCs fo Rose Gardening

The rose, our national flower, can be grown in nearly any yard or garden. Tending roses takes some preparation and care, but these suggestions can help enormously.

Choose a site that gets six hours of full sun and good air circulation, and place the rose bushes away from trees that will compete for water.

Ensure good soil drainage by adding organic matter such as peat moss or compost. Roses prefer a slightly acidic soil, so the pH should read 6 to 6.5. If your pH is below 6, add lime; if it is above 6.5, add sulfur.

Container-grown roses can be planted any time from spring through fall. Dig a hole slightly larger than the container, carefully remove the plant, and place it into the hole so that the plant’s soil is even with the ground. Tamp the soil by hand as you fill the hole, water well, and add a 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch.

Fertilize after one flower cycle is complete. Thereafter, feed in early spring, again in early summer before first blooms, and two months before first fall frost using a slow-release granular food. Provide supplemental feedings every two weeks, using an all-purpose food.

Water regularly and continue to mulch to retain moisture and discourage weeds.

Prune roses any time between January and April in warm zones and before new leaves develop in cold areas. Cut dead or diseased branches, suckers that grow from the bud union, and branches growing toward the center of the plant.

Using a sharp pruner, and wearing a good pair of gloves, cut at a 45-degree angle one-quarter inch above a healthy eye. This is the point of future growth. Prune throughout the season and remove dead flowers to keep the plant healthy and producing beautiful roses all season long.

Georgiana Marshen is a master horticulturist and freelance garden writer.

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