MULCH - It is recommended that mulch be put on the rose beds at this time before the really hot soil
temperatures. Mushroom compost, cottonseed hulls, shredded leaves, pine bark, grass clippings and
well rotted manure or any organic matter is ideal.
blooms. Remember though, do not cut too long of stems on newly planted roses. It is
DEADHEADINGrecommended to cut down to first or second leaflet. However, when bushes start
gaining height, you may want to cut a little lower to produce heavier stems. Cut out small
unproductive growth allowing major growth to mature. Continue to remove any die back and blind
shoots. Protect new basal breaks from wind by staking.
SPRAYING - Continue your prevention program for control of black spot and mildew. Be on the
alert for aphids and thrips. The will devastate blooms quickly. With the hot days coming, so will the
spider mites. Be prepared to take care of them.
FERTILIZING - Keep up your fertilizing program, using either a well-balanced granular fertilizer (13-
13-13 or 20-20-20) or water-soluable fertilizers such as Miracle-Gro, Schultz , Peters or the Alfalfa
Tea (organic).
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