Readying Roses
In January and February, roses in the ground or containers benefit from pruning and other care that readies them for a fabulous first bloom in April. Here are some planting and care tips from the San Diego Rose Society:
- Renew roses by pruning established plants. Complete pruning of floribundas, shrubs and miniatures early in the year. Prune hybrid teas and climbers by Valentine’s Day.
- After pruning established roses, apply organic rose food and then a 3-inch layer of mulch to prevent weeds.
- Start feeding established roses when there are 6 inches of new growth.
- Avoid pesticides that harm beneficial insects that fight harmful pests.
- Control aphids by washing them off with a strong stream of water or flicking them off with your fingers.
- Rose slugs thrive on the underside of a leaf and eat most of it, leaving only lacy-looking remains. Control them with Spinosad, an organic product.
If you have questions about rose pruning, visit sdrosesociety.org and click on “Ask an Expert.”
You can learn more about gardening and horticulture in San Diego by joining the San Diego Horticultural Society, sdhort.org. Monthly meetings are held 6-8:30 p.m. the second Monday of the month in the Surfside Race Place at Del Mar Fairgrounds.
