Roses

Roses come in many forms, varying in height, colour, foliage and growth habit. Available as climbers, hybrid teas, ground cover, shrubs, miniature, ramblers to name but a few. There is a rose for every gardener and every situation. Many have wonderful fragrances too.

Plant in pots using West+ Rose, Tree & Shrub Compost or mix into planting holes in borders to give new roses the best start.

Routine care includes regular feeding as they are hungry plants that require nutrient rich soil to thrive. Feed using Rose & Shrub Plant Food or Sulphate of Potash.

Initially roses require regular watering but once established their deep roots ensure they can survive well even in long, dry summers.

Remove any rose leaves showing signs of disease such as black spot, rust and mildew and either burn them or put them in the bin. Don’t add them to the compost or you will help to spread the problem to other roses in the garden. Treat plants with Plant Rescue Fungus Killer Ready To Use to deal with diseases and provide protection from further attacks. Always check leaf buds and soft growth for aphids, as they can multiply rapidly and ruin blooms. Try using Plant Rescue Ready to Use for Ornamentals to spot treat buds and growth. Plant Rescue RTU for Ornamentals will also control Red Spider Mite which can be a problem on wall trained and patio roses, causing mottled yellow foliage.

In April or may prune roses removing any dead and diseased stems. Open up the centre of the bush by removing any overgrown stems and any that are rubbing together. Always prune just above an outward facing bud, as this encourages the plant to grow out rather than in and creates a much better shape overall. An overcrowded bush is much more susceptible to pest and disease problems.