Roses

Summer

During summer, mulch should have been spread around all bushes with again a thorough watering before application. There are several options when it comes to mulches with ‘Who Flung Dung’ being the best. since it delivers nutrients as it breaks down. Others include. Straw, Pea Straw, bark and Sugar Cane Mulch. Wood chips are not a good choice as they use up a great deal of nitrogen as they break down. Sugar cane Mulch has become a favourite with many gardeners but which ever is chosen, it should be applied about 4cm thick to retain as much moisture during those hot summer days.

Adequate water must be available during summer with each bush requiring about 4 litres at least twice a week, An irrigation system with individual drippers providing the water at ground level. Overhead watering encourages fungal disease and should not be applied in the evening. Early morning watering is the best. As summer begins watch out for the pests, especially aphids which can totally ruin those early blooms. Pyrethrum is commonly used but the Yates product Mavrik is even safer and will also deal with foraging caterpillars. Apply either early in the morning or late in the evening when there are no bees around.