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Spring & Early Summer
- Southern California
Give Roses an Overall Pruning
Prune branches all over the plant to maintain a pleasing shape. This helps strengthen the lower canes and root system.
Smash the Suckers
Remove suckers from below the graft. Then smash the bases of the sucker growth so repeat growth is discouraged.
Cut Bouquets at Day's End
Some gardeners find that cut roses last longer when cut late in the day, unlike other blooms, which last longer when cut early in the morning. It's possible that the sugar that the leaves manufacture and store during the day remains there, nourishing the blooms. Experiment and see what timing works best for you.
Watch for Aphids
Here's a novel way of removing aphids from the buds on rose bushes: Soak a cotton cloth in soapy water. Surround the aphid-infested bud with with the cloth, then clasp gently as you pull the cloth away from the bud. The aphids wipe off nicely.
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
Web sites
Roses and Clematis
Learn everything you need to know about pairing these two popular garden plants, including choosing complementary varieties, planning for continuous bloom, and planting and maintenance guidelines.
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Rose Pruning
Rose pruning can be a bewildering task for the new grower. The Pruning Methods Web site from Texas A&M makes it quite simple and provides great information on pruning many types of roses. Bookmark it for later reference!
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