Roses are a staple in many gardens, but achieving larger and more vibrant blooms requires more than just watering after the March pruning. According to gardening expert Liam Beddall, senior rose consultant at David Austin Roses, the key is applying fertiliser. While roses will bloom without feeding, fertiliser encourages "strong, healthy growth and abundant flowering".
Beddall recommends using a controlled release rose food, such as the David Austin product, which needs to be applied only once a year. The fertiliser monitors soil temperature and moisture to release nutrients at the ideal time, ensuring no waste. For shrub roses, 30g of feed should be scattered around the base; climbing or rambling varieties require 60g.
Before applying fertiliser, it is important to remove weeds, dead foliage and debris from the base using a hand fork. After spreading the feed, the area should be thoroughly mulched. Mulching, using garden compost or other organic material, helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and supply nutrients as the roses grow.
Finally, watering should be done as close to the base as possible. Once water begins to run away, pause to let it soak in before continuing. This simple April task ranks among the most valuable for ensuring roses are in optimal health when summer arrives.
