Roses are heavy feeders that need plenty of nutrients to produce blooms and healthy foliage.
Learn more about how and when to fertilize roses.
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There’s no flower more classic in the garden than arose.
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Learn more about nutrient requirements and the best time to fertilize roses.
Macronutrients
Micronutrients
As the name implies, roses require small amounts of micronutrients.
Ammonium-based fertilizers can make soil more acidic, while nitrate-based fertilizers are less acidic.
Soil testscan be purchased at gardening centers or by contacting your local cooperative extension service office.
Some varieties, such as tea roses, require more nutrients than less demanding varieties like shrub roses.
Use about 1/4 cup of 10-10-10 per average-sized bush and follow label directions for rose-specific formulas.
Always water the plant well after each fertilizer program.
Use half the recommended amount of diluted liquid fertilizer to prevent over-fertilization that can burn tender roots.
As the season progresses, gradually reduce the amount used as the end of August nears.
To help roses into winter dormancy, add a thick layer of mulch to protect roots and conserve moisture.
They typically break down more slowly than synthetic fertilizers reducing the risk of root burn.
Inorganic fertilizers are usually less expensive than organic fertilizers and provide all the macronutrients roses need to thrive.
Look for signs of leaf-yellowing and fertilize more often until the plant rebounds.
Stop adding fertilizer in the fall as the roses go dormant for winter.
