Fertilise Roses Year Round
Yes you heard it, fertilising roses year round makes for fantastic healthy roses with strong root systems. Any plant that is healthy and has a strong root system will produce better flowers, and roses are no different.
In the Australian climate rose can be in active growth year round, even in winter the roots can be growing so provide for this growth by applying fertiliser every 2 months.
The old applications of ‘instant’ fertilizers, once in spring and again in late summer are falling by the wayside. Now its all all about overall soil health and regular fertilising.
What we are looking for is not a ‘high nitrogen hit’ that will push out new growth at a rapid rate in spring, we are really after a fertilizer that will not only add nutrients but also increase microbe activity in the soil.
This means that from Spring to Autumn look for something with an NPK of 9 : 2 : 12 applied every two months. And that during the winter a fertiliser that is seaweed based is a great choice.
The NPK stands for the ratio of Nitrogen – Phosphorus -Potassium. The nitrogen encourages foliage growth, Phosphorous the root system and Potassium is for disease resistance.
How to apply rose fertilizer
As with most fertiliser application, water the soil well before applying. Use the recommended rate and keep fertiliser 15 – 20 cm away from the base of the rose. Never broadcast over the foliage as fertiliser sitting on the foliage can cause burning and other problems.
Fertiliser not working ?
Check the soil ph it should be between 6.5 and 7.
Check for Iron and or Magnesium deficiencies.
Magnesium deficiency is often indicated by older foliage developing yellow edges, application of magnesium sulphate may be needed. Yellow foliage with green veins can indicate iron deficiency a little chelated iron can help.
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