Wake Up + Smell The Roses With Tips from Local Expert, Michael Of Turf 2 Trees Horticulture
Roses are a long time favourite of ours – they’re vibrant, they’re fragrant and there’s something special about picking some stunners and popping them in a vase in the house, right?
And we love love love that the Southern Highlands has the right sort of climate to make planting and growing this gorgeous flower totally achievable.
We chatted to the fabulous Michael of Turf 2 Trees Horticulture to discover how to select the right roses, plant them properly, maintain their health, and prune them effectively for breathtaking blooms that will enhance your Southern Highlands garden [and maybe make your neighbours a little jelly].
1 :: Choosing ideal rose varieties
In the Southern Highlands, it’s crucial to select rose varieties that can thrive in the region’s unique climate and soil conditions.
“Look for roses known for their resilience and disease resistance. The easiest way to figure this out is to see what everyone else is growing and pick the best ones!” says Michael.
“In my experience, a variety that grows well in Berrima may not necessarily perform in Bowral and some of the new varieties now keep their leaves for 11 months of the year. If you’re unsure, reach out to us and we can help.”
A number of varieties of roses are well-suited to the Southern Highlands and will reward you with stunning flowers throughout the season.
2 :: Plant your roses with care and a plan
Before planting your roses, make sure you’ve chosen a suitable location.
“Roses crave sunlight, so find a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day,” Michael suggests.
“The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Prepare the planting hole by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility. Plant the rose at the same level as it was in its pot, so the bud union is slightly above the soil surface.”
And of course, add water!
“Absoutely! Water thoroughly after you plant your roses to help the roots establish, and a thorough water in also helps remove voids within the soil.”
Michael adds that it’s a good habit to water the base of the plant and not the foliage. This will reduce disease in the growing season.
Michael also says it’s worth considering how you choose to graft.
“Roses in Europe are sometimes planted with the graft below ground, these are one of the few plants you can plant a little deeper than usual, however, it’s easier to see the rootstock suffering if the graft is above, ” – good to know!
3 :: Maintain the love
To keep your roses healthy and blooming, consistent care and maintenance are essential.
“Water your roses deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells,” says Michael.
“Deep waterings are always better than short infrequent ones. Adequate mulching will make sure the water penetrates the soil and doesn’t ‘bead’ off.”
“Mulch around the base of the plants with organic matter to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Feed your roses with a balanced rose fertiliser in early spring and again after the first flush of blooms.”
Pruning is also crucial to promote new growth and maintain the desired shape of the plant.
The more you deadhead, the more blooms you will have – good to know!
Bonus Tip :: Citrus branded fertiliser is also a great fertiliser for roses.
4 :: Pruning roses for optimal growth
Speaking of pruning, when should we do it?
“In late winter or early spring, when the worst of the frosts have passed, prune your roses by removing dead or damaged wood, as well as any crossing branches,” Michael says.
“Aim to create an open centre that allows air circulation and sunlight penetration. Trim back the remaining healthy canes to about 15-20 centimetres above ground level. I usually pick the best 3-5 canes and remove the rest.”
And don’t be scared! Roses thrive after a thorough pruning.
“Roses are actually quite hardy and this pruning method, known as “hard pruning,” encourages robust growth and abundant blooms, so don’t be scared. Just do it right.”
5 :: Regular monitoring for pests and diseases
Roses are susceptible to various pests and diseases, but Michael says not to worry – with a watchful eye and getting on the front foot with quick action, you can prevent or manage these issues effectively.
“The key is regular inspection and keeping an eye on your roses,” he says.
“Inspect your roses regularly for common problems like aphids, black spot, powdery mildew, and rust. If you spot any signs of trouble, get onto it straight away. You can use organic insecticides or fungicides to keep your roses healthy.”
But not all bugs are pests, adds Michael. Some can actually be helpful to the growth of your roses.
“There are many companies selling beneficial bugs you can release to help promote biological control and diversity with the garden.”
Michael also suggests removing fallen leaves and debris from around the plants will help reduce disease incidence.
Okay, that should give you plenty to get started to help you create your dream Southern Highlands garden by adding gorgeous roses to the landscaping mix.
Roses are absolutely worth the effort and as we said earlier, primed for the climate of the Highlands. So gorgeous!
Turf 2 Trees Horticulture is a Landscape and Estate Management biz, specialising in acreage, formal gardens and show gardens with over ten years of horticulture and turf management experience. A local business who has mastered the art of their craft in the unique Highlands climate, the team at Turf 2 Tree focus on efficiency and high-quality property maintenance.
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