Potty about roses
It’s natural for thoughts to turn to roses in the month of February. Afterall, deep red roses are traditionally associated with love and romance. Instead of a bunch of cut roses, why not present the object of your affection with a potted rose that will, if looked after and nurtured, continue to blossom much like your relationship.
- Choose the right rose. Look for fragrant, compact disease-resistant varieties with continual blooms. Avoid climbers or large shrub roses. The experts at your local nursery will be able to advise.
- Pick the right pot. Anything with a drainage hole will work.
- Use quality potting mix and enrich with compost to increase the water holding capacity.
- Use a general organic soil that does NOT include any type of granular or time release fertilizer. Use of this type of potting soil may burn the roots.
- Water regularly so that soil is moist, but not wet.
- Feed often for more blooms. First in spring, once new growth unfurls, and then after each flush of blooms – about every 4 to 6 weeks.
- Prune as normal to deadhead, shape, and control insects and disease.
- Re-pot every two to three years to refresh the soil.
- Root prune if you’re trying to keep the plant small.
- Transplant into a larger container if you notice a decrease in blooms.
Choose a container that is suitable for your rose type. Because roses are deep rooted, tall pots are always better than short, stout ones.
TIP: The bigger the pot, the less you’ll have to water.
Drainage holes are a must. Good drainage is key. If your ceramic or terra cotta pot is hole-free, create one by drilling a hole in the bottom of the pot. Plastic and fiberglass pots often have plugs that can be removed prior to planting.
