Roses

Autumn

The weather has on the whole been kind to rose enthusiasts this year and there have been some great displays throughout Spring and early Summer. Those that have switched to racing at Flemington early March will have seen the excellent repeat flowing in time for the Australian Cup/Guineas meeting. This has been achieved by counting back 45-55 days from the date of the meeting and giving the bushes an all-over prune. For those of us that have used the same technique can expect a good showing at Easter which is comparatively early this year.

If the weather remains dry it will be necessary to continue the Summer watering programme to get the best results.

However, this is the time of year when pests and diseases come back with a vengeance. Black Spot and Powdery Mildew are the two main fungous diseases that can spoil that Autumn display and spraying will be necessary to keep them under control. Several organic and non-organic sprays are available and can be combined with an insecticide if Aphids or caterpillars are present.

April can be considered the beginning of the Rose Year. It is the time when we look at our rose beds and decide which bushes are beyond redemption and must be replaced and consider buying those replacements and perhaps some for a new bed. If replacing a rose bush, after removal dig out about a barrow load of the soil and replace with a barrow load of new soil that has not had roses growing in it, Vege mix is probably the best, as it contains Mushroom compost and this will not damage the new roots like chicken manure.

Prepare the site in April but wait until May/June to plant new roses.