Roses Bloom in the Desert                                      Southwestern Deserts

In our normally dry conditions, roses don't suffer from many of the serious ailments, such as black spot, that plague more humid parts of the country. We have our share of thrips, powdery mildew, and aphids, but in general we can count on our rose blooms to be glorious.

A Little Care Goes A Long Way
Gardeners who exhibit in rose shows want perfection, so they usually spray for these problems, but average home gardeners don't have to be so demanding. Your best bet is to keep bushes healthy with effective watering and fertilizing. Healthy plants are better able to fend off pests and disease. Also, spray off the shrubs several times a week with a strong blast of water from the hose. This controls aphids and powdery mildew, but doesn't harm the beneficial insects that consume aphids, thrips, and spider mites.

In spring and early summer, roses need to be watered twice per week, increasing to three times if temperatures are high or if conditions are windy. Plants can be desiccated in just a day if it's windy. Whatever type of irrigation you have, allow water to soak at least 2 feet deep. Layer 3 to 4 inches of organic mulch around the bushes. It will maintain soil moisture and add nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.

Roses need regular feeding. Use a product formulated for roses or flowering plants according to package instructions. Scratch granular fertilizers lightly into the soil and water immediately after application. Liquid fertilizer can be applied every two weeks during this peak bloom season.

Be sure to sit back and enjoy the fruits -- or blooms! -- of your labors.