Tips for trouble-free roses

By Michael Marriott

Rose expert Michael Marriott has tips on tackling diseases such as black spot and mildew

New rose Wild Edric ('Aushedge')

'Feed with an organically based fertiliser twice a year, once in late June or early July, then again in late March or early April.'

• Choose disease-resistant varieties and give them a sunny position that gets at least four or five hours of sun per day.
• Prepare the soil well when planting by adding plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost.
• Soak the roots of bare-root roses before planting for several hours in a bucket, and also soak containerised roses for an hour or two.
• Make sure the bud union is 7-10cm (3-4in) below ground level.
• Water frequently, especially in dry weather, to help prevent mildew.
• Feed with an organically based fertiliser twice a year, once in late June or early July, then again in late March or early April.
• Do not apply fertiliser after the end of July; it will promote soft growth that's susceptible to pests, disease and frost damage.
• Mulch with organic matter every spring – after fertilising. This barrier will prevent fungal black-spot spores from infecting young leaves and help to conserve moisture.
• Plant roses among non-invasive herbaceous plants and annuals. Their flowers will attract lacewings and hoverflies – the larvae of which eat greenfly.
• Prune roses between late December and early February to encourage healthy new growth.

Michael's 10 healthiest English roses

1. 'The Generous Gardener'
2. 'The Mayflower'
3. 'Queen of Sweden'
4. 'A Shropshire Lad'
5. 'Harlow Carr'
6. 'Wild Edric'
7. 'Claire Austin'
8. 'Teasing Georgia'
9. 'The Pilgrim'
10. 'Crocus Rose'

Rose expert Michael Marriott works for David Austin Roses.
Rose image above supplied by Roses UK.

For further gardening advice, hints and tips, go to www.gardensmonthly.co.uk