1. Continue to water as needed to provide the equivalent of 2 inches of rain fall per week. Even
though temperatures have cooled off these past couple of weeks the wind quickly dries out the
gardens. Water is an important for producing show quality roses.
to thrive. and black spotInsects to thrive. blossoms when you spot these pesky bugs.
blossoms when you spot these pesky bugs.
3. Fertilize carefully. The rule of thumb is not to fertilize less than 8 weeks before the first frost.
Early September should still be safe. You can fertilize with
a phosphate fertilizer which will strengthen root growth. Phosphorus moves very slowly so you
will not see results very quickly.
4. Check your mulch level. It has probably decreased over the spring and summer so you may
need to add some new mulch before cooler weather sets in.
5. Begin finger pruning on prospective show blooms to produce a single stem. Clip out the center
bloom on groups that you might show as a spray.
6. Evaluate your roses and look for ones that you may want to replace. Many companies are
already taking order for 2008 delivery so if you are looking
for some of the hot new ones (or an old favorite) it is time to order.
7. After the fall shows are over, quit your dead heading so that new growth is discouraged and
the plant will begin to go dormant for the winter. A harsh frost
on new growth is hard on the plant. Let your beauties rest for the winter.
8. Attend, participate and support your local, regional and national shows and conventions. See
Upcoming Events for the list of fall shows and conventions. Each of the rose societies have web-
sites that can be visited via your computer. The shows and conventions are wonderful
opportunities to see old friends, meet new ones and enjoy the beautiful roses that have kept us so
busy this spring and summer!
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