To keep your roses in top shape all spring and summer, it’s important to regularly feed them and control pests.
Elise Harlock, brand manager at Prestige Flowers, said: “Roses are the stars of the garden, and with a bit of care, they can thrive all summer.”
When it comes to feeding, roses need a consistent supply of nutrients to thrive, and they are heavy feeders.
Elise recommended using a balanced fertiliser every four to six weeks throughout the season.
Whilst many commercial feeders are on the market, gardeners can also use banana peels too.
The expert said: “They’re rich in potassium, which will help them bloom. Just chop them up and bury them around the base of your rose bushes.”
There are many ways to feed roses with banana peel including making banana tea, making a powder or simply placing the peel into the soil.
It’s also important to help roses fend off pests, including aphids and spider mites, which can diminish their beauty.
Elise noted: “A quick and easy solution is to mix a few drops of washing up liquid in a spray bottle filled with water.
“Spray this mixture directly on the affected areas once a week to keep pests at bay. It’s a gentle yet effective method that won’t harm your roses.”
At the same time, you treat the rose bush or plant, you can also water them, ideally once a week during dry periods.
Using a soaker hose is a great way to deliver water directly to the roots without wasting any.
To help assist with plant growth, Epsom salt is recommended, which is a “fantastic, often overlooked tool for rose care”.
The expert said: “It provides magnesium, which is essential for photosynthesis and overall plant health.”
Simply dissolve a tablespoon of salt in a gallon of water and spray the roses monthly to “enhance colour and vitality”.
Elise added: “Pruning is also essential to keep your roses healthy and vigorous. Trim back dead or diseased wood and regularly deadhead spent flowers.
“This encourages new growth and extends the blooming season. You can simply snap off dead blooms with your fingers or use a pair of sharp pruners.”
