Regional Growing Guide: Northern California Coastal & Inland Valleys
Mild, rainy winters are a signature of this region, which stretches from Seattle to San Francisco, and from the Pacific Ocean to the Cascade and Sierra ranges. Fall through spring, the northernmost parts may see more rain than sun. The experts advise a two-prong approach: select the many disease-resistant roses now available; and drench the soil and spray the canes and emerging buds in early spring with a generous dose of compost tea. Gardeners will be rewarded with a first flush of blooms in late spring, followed by waves of perfect buds and flowers all summer, and a final round of flowering in October and November.
Select a season: Spring Early Summer Late Summer Fall
Propagate Roses from Cuttings
Late summer is the perfect time to start roses from cuttings. Select blooming wood, remove the top flower and the bottom leaves, allowing a few leaves to remain to support the young plant. Cover cuttings with plastic to prevent moisture loss, and mist them daily. Place the cuttings in a bright location away from direct sunlight. When new growth starts, wait a few weeks before fertilizing with fish emulsion.
Allow Roses to Form Hips
By not cutting the faded flowers off and allowing rose hips to form, you will signal your plants to go dormant for the winter. Roses that are allowed to rest will be stronger plants. Migrating birds may eat the hips as they pass through the area.
Weed Under Rose Plants
Remove weeds under and around roses so they don't compete for water and nutrients. This will also improve air circulation around the plants, and it keeps the bed looking tidy.
Prepare Soil for Next Spring's Roses
Roses need a well-loosened and amended soil, so prepare the soil now for spring planting. If the bed is in a low spot, add coarse sand and topsoil to raise the level. Then mix in compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Cutting Tips for Roses
A beautiful bouquet of roses will last much longer if you follow a few simple cutting instructions. Cut early in the morning before the dew has dried from the leaves. Immediately plunge the cut stems into a deep bucket filled with hot water! Allow the cut flowers to rest for a few hours, or as long as overnight, before you arrange them in the vase.