Gardeners are being urged to take action this month as they risk damaging next year’s rose blooms. According to experts, this month marks a critical turning point for rose care, and neglecting your plants now could lead to long-term consequences for their health and flowering ability.
“July is when roses really start to show off – but they’re also working hard, and that means they need more attention than usual,” explained Nick Wood, horticulturalist at GardeningExpress.co.uk. While roses are hardy and can withstand a certain amount of neglect, failing to give them the proper care during this crucial period can result in weak growth and poor flowering the following year.
How to keep your roses healthy during summer
1. Deadhead regularly
Snip off faded flowers just above a healthy set of leaves. This simple task prevents your roses from wasting energy on seed production, encouraging them to produce more blooms and extending the flowering season well into late summer.
2. Feed after the first flush
Once the first wave of blooms has passed, it’s time to give your roses a feeding boost. A rose-specific or high-potassium fertiliser will help fuel the next round of buds, supporting strong stems and healthy leaves. This is especially important for repeat-flowering varieties.
3. Water deeply
Roses require plenty of moisture during summer, particularly in hot, dry conditions. Water your plants deeply once or twice a week at the base to encourage deep roots. Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases like mildew and black spot.
4. Watch for pests
Keep an eye out for common summer pests such as aphids, black spot, rust, and powdery mildew. Early signs include distorted leaves or black blotches. Treat affected plants promptly to avoid widespread damage.
5. Prune lightly if needed
Trim back straggly or crossing stems to improve airflow and maintain the plant’s shape. Pruning also helps prevent disease and encourages bushier growth, resulting in more flowers in the weeks ahead.
6. Mulch if not already done
Applying a generous layer of organic mulch like composted bark or well-rotted manure helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. This is particularly important during hot spells, as it keeps roots cool and promotes long-term plant health.