In August, a simple task can keep roses blooming well into autumn, according to horticultural experts. While many gardeners reach for fertiliser, checking leaves and petals for pests and diseases is more effective, especially during heatwaves.
Inspect Roses for Pests and Diseases
Hot weather weakens roses, making them vulnerable to aphids and fungal diseases. Ross Dyke, horticultural expert at Lechuza, told Ideal Homes: "Keep an eye out for common issues like black spot, aphids and mildew. Remove any infected leaves as soon as you can, and ensure good airflow around the plant."
Black spot, a common fungal disease, thrives in warm, damp conditions, but can spread through wind, rain, and gardening tools. Roses with poor airflow or overcrowded growth are especially at risk. Although black spot rarely kills a rose, it weakens the plant by causing leaf loss, reducing its ability to produce healthy flowers.
Additional Care Tips
Philip from Harkness Roses recommends spraying a foliar feed, such as Uncle Tom's Tonic, onto leaves every two weeks during the flowering season to prevent disease. Apply it in the early morning or evening, avoiding direct sunlight.
Watering is also crucial in August, especially during hot, dry weather. Water roses early morning or evening, directly at the roots, to avoid scorching. Experts advise watering deeply once or twice a week rather than little and often, to encourage stronger roots. If affected by a hosepipe ban, a large watering can is effective.
