Description

Roses are deciduous woody stemmed plants or scrambling climbers which range in size from small shrubs under 50cm tall through to the huge spreading climbers which can have a spread of over 30 metres. The foliage varies from bright green, very deep lustrous, almost black-green or distinctly blue tinted. Most varieties have arching, thorny or dense prickly stems topped off with brilliantly colourful and fragrant single, semi-double and full double blooms. Roses are generally frost hardy, vigorous plants that apart some climatic and soil preferences, will prove to be drought tolerant once fully established. They are suitable for most garden and container locations in climatic zones with moderate to low humidity levels.

Cultivation

All roses require an open and airy, sunny position. Place them where they will receive at least 5 hours or more direct sunshine per day. The more they are grown in shade and dampness, the fewer flowers they will produce and also the more likelihood of fungal attacks. Do not plant too close to other established trees and shrubs and provide protection from wind.

Roses are very adaptable to most soil types once established, however best results are obtained when planted in medium to heavy, moist but free draining loam over a good clay sub-soil. Prepare the growing site by digging over the soil and adding a good handful of blood and bone or rich compost prior to planting out. Dig a hole large enough to take the roots, which should be placed down and outwards over a small mound at the bottom of the hole. If planting tall upright roses, drive a sturdy stake into the soil beside the plant and securely tie it with soft nylon or double sided Velcro above ground level. The bud graft or bud union should be should remain approximately 5cm above the back filled soil. Water in well at planting time and then on an occasional basis to promote growth. Apply a good layer of mulch over the planted area to help retain moisture.

Once established, most roses only require pruning when dormant to a desired shape, except Mini Bush roses which can be simply cut “straight across the top” to about a height of 12–16cm after each flowering. Don’t be afraid to be brutal with the secateurs, because a heavy pruning will stimulate new growth to sprout and ensure you get even more flowers. Roses require protection from diseases as Black Spot, Powdery Mildew and Rust; and pests as Aphids, Spider Mites and Caterpillars.