A rose bush brimming with fragrant blossoms is a summer spectacle, and a rewarding sight for gardeners who have diligently pruned and prepared throughout winter. However, when the initial bloom fades in June or early July, many gardeners mistakenly believe the best has passed.
In reality, this is precisely when roses require additional care to maintain their beauty for the weeks ahead. While many modern roses are bred to bloom repeatedly, some varieties, especially rambling and older shrub roses, only produce one magnificent flush of flowers in early summer. Hybrid teas, floribundas, modern David Austin shrubs and some climbers are certainly worth nurturing to stimulate a second round of vibrant petals, achievable through a simple gardening task.
Neil Robertson from The English Garden explains that a well-timed summer feed encourages the formation of new buds, significantly prolonging the flowering period.
Without this, the plant may divert its energy into producing seed pods, also known as hips, which mark the end of the flowering cycle.
However, with the correct nutrients, roses are primed to produce another burst of colour.
How to encourage roses to bloom again in summer
Feeding at this stage replenishes essential nutrients like magnesium and potash, which foster new blooms and promote healthy green foliage, adding to the overall splendour of roses.
Neil reveals that he maintains the stunning display of roses at the Hever Rose Garden with a straightforward feeding schedule.
“At the beginning of the season, we use an all-purpose, slow-release granular rose feed that is high in potassium.”
The horticultural specialist emphasises careful application, advising gardeners to create a small ring around the plant’s base with the feed to prevent leaf scorching.
“After the first flush of blooms, we make sure to feed again to encourage a longer flowering season”, Neil explained.
He drew parallels with human health maintenance: “As humans, we take vitamins and echinacea to ward off or lessen colds… in the same way, feeding roses ensures they are less likely to get seriously ill.”
When to feed roses
Garden border roses require feeding during summer following their initial flowering display. The English Garden specialists recommend nourishing border varieties (including climbers and ramblers) after rainfall when possible, to maximise moisture retention.
Begin by removing faded blooms from both the plant and surrounding area. Clear any weeds before applying feed.
Granular plant food, pelleted poultry manure or specialist rose fertiliser should be applied to the soil surrounding the root system. Always work it gently into the earth and follow with thorough watering.
Spread mulch to approximately 5cm depth above the soil surface, keeping clear of the immediate stem area. Water once more.
**Container roses** If your roses are potted, they should be given an all-liquid feed from late April, when the plant begins to sprout. This is easily noticeable as flower buds will start to appear.
During the summer, administer a high potash feed such as a tomato fertiliser to encourage a second wave of blossoms.