|
November and December can be awkward months for gardeners because the growing season is coming to an end but the dormant season has not yet begun. Many find that they don’t quite know what to do with their plants during this time of the year.
Roses are not dormant during this period and still require maintenance. Watering should be continued during this period and the soil around their roots needs to remain moist. Water the plant generously as needed, but do not over water the roses. If the plant is properly hydrated it will be well protected when colder temperatures arrive.
Pruning and deadheading activity should be stopped during this time so new growth is not encouraged. Organics should have stopped being applied in October, and fertilizer is no longer necessary at this time either. The rose needs to be kept healthy but also needs to be encouraged to go into dormancy.
The foliage should be sprayed at least once a month to combat black spot and spider mites. Spray your blooms and foliage with a water bottle whenever you see signs of infestation. Aphids continue to be active at this time so keep a bottle of soapy water to apply if needed.
Any diseased leaves should be removed from the plant and fallen leaves raked and thrown away. This will improve the appearance of the garden and also remove any disease residue which may be on the leaves.
Next you should prepare new rose holes and beds for next year’s growing season. This will allow them time to develop over the winter season and be ready for new plants in the spring.
Mulch should be piled around more delicate varieties such as “St. Patrick”, “Color Magic”, “Oklahoma” and “Signature”. Hardier varieties can wait until next month. Read the “Winter Gardening” article for mulching tips.
With all the hard work done the plants should be healthy and beautiful. If the process was followed correctly, the reward was waves of beautiful blooms. The upkeep is nearly done for the year, but don’t neglect the plants during these important final months.
Roses
Garden Notes |
