Expert Reveals 10-Second February Task for Bigger, Healthier Rose Blooms
February represents a critical window for rose enthusiasts, according to gardening expert William Mitchell from Sutton Manor Nursery. Following months of winter dormancy, roses require specific care to awaken vigorously and flourish magnificently come springtime. Neglecting them during this pivotal period can lead to feeble blooms, stunted growth, or increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
The Essential February Feeding Routine
While many gardeners believe roses will manage independently once winter passes, this assumption is inaccurate. Proper pruning, watering, and pest management in February are vital, but Mitchell emphasises one additional, often overlooked element: feeding. On his gardening website, Sutton Manor Nursery, Mitchell has outlined a list of gardening tasks that must be tackled in February, with feeding roses being absolutely crucial.
Roses demand substantial nourishment, and after winter, they require a significant boost. Mitchell recommends a straightforward 10-second job that involves applying a slow-release fertiliser at the base of the plant. This simple act provides the continuous supply of nutrients roses need throughout the growing season to perform at their absolute best.
Why February Feeding Makes a Difference
Mitchell explains that February is the ideal time to prepare flowering shrubs for spring growth. "Fertilising them with a slow-release fertiliser in February allows for early growth and protection before the first growth appears," he observed. Roses typically emerge from winter dormancy in late March or early April and should be fed when the first buds begin to appear at the very latest.
The benefits extend beyond mere bloom production. Mitchell maintains that not only do "healthy roses bloom better", but they are also "more resistant to disease and insects". This proactive approach in February sets the foundation for a resilient and vibrant display throughout the warmer months.
Practical Tips for Optimal Rose Care
When nourishing your roses, ensure you apply the fertiliser directly at the base of the plant, carefully steering clear of the foliage to avoid scorching the leaves. Mitchell also advises maintaining a gardening diary nearby to record when and how you fertilise, which helps gardeners remain organised and consistent with their care routines.
For repeat-flowering rose varieties, a second feeding is recommended in late June or early July to sustain their blooming cycle. This two-stage feeding strategy, initiated with the crucial February application, ensures roses receive the sustained nutrition required for ongoing health and floral abundance.
By dedicating just ten seconds to this task in February, gardeners can significantly enhance the size, quality, and durability of their rose blooms, transforming their gardens into showcases of colour and vitality for the entire growing season.
