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Getting started
Roses need at least 5 hours of sun a day and prefer a spot that is sheltered from strong winds to thrive.
Roses come in all shapes, colours and sizes including climbing roses, standard roses, low-growing bush roses, strong scented roses and patio roses.
Selecting the right rose variety for your garden
Choose healthy looking plants. Avoid any plants that have withered or damaged stems.
Some other considerations to be aware of are:
Climate: this is essential for fewer pest and disease issues.
Colour: Usually this is a matter of personal preference, but you may want to try complimentary colours.
Height and space: Roses can grow anywhere between 8 – 20 feet so check how big the plant will be when mature to make sure it will have enough room to grow.
Preparation
Prepare the area by digging the soil over and adding Tui Flower Power to assist the establishment of the plant. This can be used in pots as well as garden beds.
Planting
Dig a hole big enough to hold the roots and stem, generally twice the size of the original pot or rootball. Make a mound 5 - 10cm high in the centre of the hole. Knock the plant carefully out of its container and place in the centre of the hole, spreading the roots out evenly over the small mound. Ensure the graft / bud union (this looks like a knot on the stem) is sitting above ground level.
Fill in the hole with Tui Flower Power and water well.
Rose care
Roses are easy to maintain and will reward you with an abundance of striking blooms if a few tasks are completed ever year.
Pruning
It is best to prune in winter on a dry day. Use clean sharp tools and remove all dead and diseased stems.
Generally aim to cut the main branches back by half and clear the centre of the plant to allow good air movement, leaving at least three to four main canes in a open vase shape. Remove any growth that may be coming out from below the graft and make all cuts on an angle, just above an outward facing bud.
Spraying
Spray with Tui Eco-Fungicide and Tui Eco-Pest to control insects and disease like black spot and powdery mildew.
Planting garlic under roses helps keep aphids away.
Fertilising
During the winter months roses do not need a lot of fertiliser. In spring when roses start growing again, an application of Tui Rose Food will enhance the establishment and growth of healthy roses. This fertiliser has an excellent level of potassium, which is the nutrient responsible for promoting large, vibrant, healthy blooms. For established roses apply 200g (1 cup) per square metre and water in well. Application should be done in early spring and then again in mid December for an autumn flush of bloom.
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