>Summer Rose Care In The Deep South

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Summer is upon us and it’s time to consider how we care for our roses during the hot steamy months of summer in the deep south.

Pruning

By now, many of us are past our first and some past the second flush of blooms for the season. Make sure you are deadheading your roses regularly to make way for new growth and blooms.

Water

Many of us rarely get the correct amount of rain for growing roses. Roses need about an inch or so or water per week to continue growing and blooming. Watering from the bottom of the plant is best, as the water on the foliage can set you up for fungal disease. Roses like people, require water to survive, make sure they are getting enough.

Spray

As the humidity rises, so does the instance of blackspot and other fungal diseases. A good spray every 10 days or so will keep these diseases at bay. I alternate Manzoceb and Ortho.

Be sure to remove any infected leaves. The key here is to be proactive. My grandmother told me once, “honey, it’s better to prepare and prevent than to repair and repent”. The same rule applies here, spray often, remove infected leaves, move on! note: I only spray for pests when I see them..

Enjoy

Part of the joy of growing roses is being able to enjoy them. I hope you are cutting blooms for your home and for those around you. I am a person who would cut nearly every bloom I grow to bring in doors and to give away to people. I try to never underestimate the power of a rose. So many suffer from loneliness, so many sick and many just need a little pick-me-up. A fresh rose will do it every time! In fact, I dare you to cut a bouquet of whatever flowers you grow and give it away to someone. I would love to hear what happens…..

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