Regional Growing Guide: Western Mountains & High Plains
From the eastern slopes of the Cascade and Sierra ranges through the High Plains, this generally arid region battles bitterly cold winters, blustery spring winds, little rain and sometimes brutal summer heat. The soil presents challenges, too, be it alkaline, sandy, clay or infused with salt and boron. Fortunately, the severe climate poses few insect or disease problems. But the roses that thrive here must be cold hardy and survive wild swings in temperature. They often bear strong, leathery leaves to resist desiccation. They also appreciate regular irrigation, heavily amended soil, a thick layer of mulch and protection from the wind.
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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.
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.
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.