How to Care for a Bargain Priced Rose
- 1). Inspect the rose plant for any signs of fungal diseases or pests. Look for spotted leaves caused by black spot, fuzzy growth on leaves infected with powdery mildew and purple spots on canes that indicate a sign of brown canker. Avoid buying any plants with pests or fungal diseases, because they will infect the rest of your rose plants.
- 2). Soak your bare root roses for an hour before planting. If you have purchased container-grown rose plants, plant them right away to ensure their root systems don't dry out. Plant your bargain rose plant at least 15 inches away from your other plants to provide enough air circulation.
- 3). Prune any damaged portions of the plant with a pair of bypass shears. Bargain roses left in nurseries throughout the growing season may show a considerable amount of wear. Cut away any discolored portions of the plant.
- 4). Spread a 2-inch layer of acidic mulch like pine needles around your rose plant, but do not allow it to touch the base. Water your newly planted rose plant with 1 inch of water a week. Because the plant might be experiencing transplant shock, give it a deep watering by slowly releasing water into the soil to encourage deep, healthy root establishment.
- 5). Fertilize your bargain rose with 2 cups of well-balanced fertilizer in the spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer with an NPK (nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium ratio) of 2-5-2.
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