Rose Bush Care

Updated on July 08, 2008
A.F. asks from Ogden, UT
4 answers

I recently moved into a new house, and my question is really in two parts. First, I now have about 8 rose bushes in the yard, which I love, but have no idea how to care for. They were all in full bloom for the last two weeks or so, then all the roses started wilting and losing their petals. When they started looking ratty (all at the same time) I cut off the flowers just under the base and threw them away. I left the ones that were blooming nicely or were not quite full yet. Now, I have about 6 flowers between the 8 bushes, and maybe four buds that haven't bloomed yet. I can't see any new growth or new buds coming out. Have I ruined the bushes?? How am I supposed to prune and care for them without damaging them?

Also, There are so many other bushes and flowers, etc growing in our yard and I have no idea what they are. What is the best way to identify a plant and find information about caring for them? Any help would be appreciated because I am brand new to the whole gardening and landscaping thing. Thanks!

What can I do next?

  • Add yourAnswer own comment
  • Ask your own question Add Question
  • Join the Mamapedia community Mamapedia
  • as inappropriate
  • this with your friends

More Answers

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

C.L.

answers from Provo on

Water your roses in the early morning too. That gives the leaves and stalks a chance to dry before the heat of the day and will prevent scorching. Roses are water hogs, the more they get, the better they do.

Also, check the blossoms and stalks for parasites. Roses are really prone to infestations by thrips, which will eat a rose bud from the inside out and make it look like its dying before it even blooms. Earwigs are another problem. If you go to a good nursery, you can pick up a box of lady bugs which will take care of the thrips, but you do have to spray for the earwigs. Ask for something called Insecticidal Soap. You may want to have your DH spray that since you are taking care of small kids.

Also, when you clip off any blooms, take some Elmer's Glue and rub a small amount over the cut. This will prevent the stalk from drying out and will keep out burrowing insects.

Anything else that you spot that looks odd, like rusty or white scaly patches on the leaves or stalks should be mentioned when you are at the nursery. They will know what to do and can advise you. Or you can do some surfing on the web about rose care. Google "pruning roses" or "rose care."

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

J.B.

answers from Denver on

Colorado gardening is a challenge even for those of us who've been at it awhile. To keep the roses blooming, trim off the dead blooms down a lttle futher to where there is a group of five leaves. The plant will rest for a week or so then start putting out more blooms. Fertilize the rose bushes about once a month with a general fertizier like "Miracle Grow". The bushes won't bloom as much when the temp. is really high. Be sure to keep them watered well when it's hot.

A good resource book is "Rocky Mountain Gardener's Guide" by John Cretti. It has lots of pictures and tell how to take care of plants in this area.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

S.M.

answers from Casper on

Take pictures of plants you can't identify and take them in to a garden expert at your local nursery.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

S.H.

answers from Casper on

Roses are not real fond of water on their leaves and blooms. Of course in the rain it can't be helped, but if you are watering them try to water the base of the plant. We have a drip system (one outlet to each rosebush). We have about 23 rosebushes and they are beautiful. I always have fresh roses in my house too. Our roses have been coming back better each year for the past 10 years. I live in Wyoming.

For Updates and Special Promotions
Follow Us

Related Questions