The Puget Sound is noted for it's variety of micro climates, so no wonder it can be challenging to find the right rose for your garden. The document below is a compilation of roses the Seattle Rose Society recommends. If you still find it challenging to determine what will grow well in your garden, perhaps one of the society's Consulting … [Read more...]
Consulting Rosarian Listing
SE Seattle Caroline & John Fredette 206-723-7141 Nelson Vitous 206-722-8016 Bothell/Kirkland/Woodinville John … [Read more...]
Pruning
Pruning improves appearance, stimulates growth, aids in disease management, and controls the quality and quantity of bloom. Pruning removes the parts of the plant that are unproductive, dead, damaged, or diseased. Plants are always improved and never killed by pruning. Incorrect pruning is better than no pruning at all. Unpruned rose plants … [Read more...]
Insect & Disease Control
Most bugs are good; a few pests provide food for the “good guys.” However, sometimes the “bad guys” get out of hand and you might need to take action. Less-toxic insecticides, such as horticultural oils, insecticidal soaps and pyrethrins kill only those insects they contact, but are quite effective at reducing pest populations. Systemic … [Read more...]
Fertilizing Roses
Fertilizing is how we replenish the nutrients consumed by the plant. Plants should be fed if they are to remain healthy and produce good blooms. There are two ways to feed the plant – with organic material or inorganic fertilizer. Organic materials such as manure, compost or meals (blood, fish, soy, kelp, etc.) feed the soil with additional … [Read more...]
Buying and Planting Roses
Purchase #1 grade rose plants, either bare root or potted, from a reputable nursery. Avoid buying “bargain” roses. They will cost more in the long run. Quality rose plants have a strong, healthy root system, and sufficient canes to support growth until the root system becomes established. Consider how the rose has been handled before you buy it. … [Read more...]