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Spring & Early Summer -
Western Mountains & High Plains
Water Roses in the Morning
If you use an overhead sprinkler or hose, try to water in the morning. Some varieties are very susceptible to fungal diseases, which are enhanced if the foliage is kept wet. Give the leaves time to dry off before nightfall.
Fertilize with Coffee
Save your used coffee grounds and tea leaves, dry them overnight, and then toss them into the garden. Roses and geraniums are especially fond of them. These leftovers add organic matter and trace elements that plants love, but they will acidify the soil, so don't use too much.
Add Epsom Salts
A handful of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) around the dripline of roses will encourage new basal growth. Epsom salts also will green up the leaves and strengthen canes. Afterward, throw some in a tub of warm water and stick your feet in and relax.
Prepare Roses for Planting
When planting nursery roses and other shrubs, closely inspect the roots and stems. Sometimes tags are wrapped onto stems when the plant is small and are well hidden by the time the plant is purchased. Carefully remove all nursery tapes, tags, and strings before you plant. If they are left in place, the strings will soon cut off circulation to that stem or root and it will die.
Leave Wilting Flowers
Even when plants are watered deeply and thoroughly, some, such as roses, can wilt in the midday heat. It usually happens on hot, windy days. They just can't keep up with the transpiration of water from their leaves. As long as they are well watered, they'll perk up in the cool of the evening.
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Resources
Books:
Growing Roses Organically
Clear information on managing pests is a hallmark of Rodale Organic Gardening Books, and Growing Roses Organically: Your Guide to Creating an Easy-Care Garden Full of Fragrance and Beauty, is no exception. Author Barbara Wilde refutes the myth that growing roses means spraying synthetic pesticides to control diseases and insects. In addition to the vital pest management information, Wilde also includes a summary of rose classifications, variety recommendations (both heirloom and recent introductions), and colorful photos. She rounds out the book by including design ideas, a rose care calendar, and an extensive index.
Website:
Help Me Find Roses
The Help Me Find Roses Web site offers an extensive search engine for rose varieties. It includes information on the variety's breeding line, bloom form, fragrance, and hardiness zones. You also can search for sources of a variety, public rose gardens, and rose societies in your area. Wow!  Website
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