Roses need a balanced diet with the right nutrients in order to not only survive, but thrive. Knowing how and when to fertilize your roses helps ensure that blooms stay vibrant, healthy, and long-lasting. This post will help you determine which fertilizer types will work best in your garden and how to apply them effectively.
Before You Begin: Soil & pH
Not all us gardeners are lucky enough to have the perfect balance of nutrients in our soil. Too much or too little nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), or potassium (K) can prevent your roses from blooming as vibrantly as they should. This is why it’s crucial to conduct a soil test before choosing a rose fertilizer.
Soil test first: Determine nutrient and pH levels so you can make the proper adjustments.
Target pH: Roses are most comfortable in neutral to slightly acidic soil. Aim for a pH between 6.0-7.0. Outside this range, they’ll struggle to absorb essential nutrients. Remember to adjust pH before feeding.
Key Nutrients that Roses Need
Each nutrient has its own role to play in the growth of healthy roses. No matter which fertilizer you choose, it must contain these key nutrients that they need to flourish:
Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen is responsible for that lush green foliage we all love and overall plant vigor.
Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus gives roses the energy boost they need to develop strong roots and produce abundant flowers.
Potassium (K): Potassium contributes to overall rose hardiness – equipping plants with the strength to combat disease and heat stress.
Micronutrients: In addition to NPK, small amounts of iron, calcium, and magnesium will help your roses maintain their strength and beauty.
How & When to Fertilize
Your roses’ feeding schedule will vary slightly depending on their ages and environment. Always follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results. Here’s how and when to fertilize newly-planted roses, established roses, and container roses.
Newly Planted Roses
When to begin: In the first year of planting a rose, wait until you see 4-6 inches of new growth.
Frequency: Every 4-6 weeks.
Recommended type: Liquid slow-release fertilizer. Granular fertilizers can be harsh on young roots and even cause root burn.
Established Roses (In-Ground)
When to begin: Early spring (after the last frost) to prevent winter damage to new growth.
Frequency: Once or twice a month during the growing season – after each bloom cycle.
When to stop: 6-8 weeks before the first frost date to prepare for dormancy.
Container (Potted) Roses
When to begin: At planting & after the first year.
Frequency: Every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
When to stop: 6-8 weeks before the first frost date to prepare for dormancy.
Recommended type: Liquid or water-soluble slow-release fish fertilizer. Granular fertilizers can be too hot for container roses and cause root burn.
Best Fertilizer for Roses (Types & When to Use)
When it comes to rose fertilizers, there’s no one-size-fits-all. And with the wide variety available, it’s not always easy to know which is best for your garden. Let’s narrow it down by breaking them down into 2 categories: organic vs. inorganic.
Organic Fertilizers
Organic fertilizers slowly build soil nutrition over time and improve overall structure, contributing to longer-lasting blooms. If you’re prioritizing long-term plant health over fast flowering, choose organic fertilizers such as:
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Alfalfa meal
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Aged/composted manure
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Bonemeal
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Fish emulsion
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Epsom salt - ONLY if there is a confirmed magnesium deficiency
*Always follow the label rates when applying!
Inorganic (Synthetic) Fertilizers
Convenient and fast-acting, inorganic fertilizers are available for gardeners eager to see blooms pop up quicker on their roses. You can buy these prepackaged blends in a couple different forms:
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Slow-release granular: Provides controlled, steady feeding. Water in after applying and keep off canes for proper airflow.
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Water-soluble/liquid: Best for quick corrections or potted roses.
Always follow the instructions on the packaging. Overapplication of synthetic fertilizers can lead to salt buildup and harm to soil health.
You’ve likely seen “rose food” blends when shopping for fertilizers. These formulations tend to be higher in phosphorus that promotes vibrant blooms. But they’re by no means necessary, similar results can be easily achieved with all-purpose fertilizers.
Step-by-Step: Proper Application
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Tidy the area: Remove fallen leaves, weeds, or debris.
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Apply fertilizer: Sprinkle your chosen fertilizer around the base of the rose – keeping space away from the canes. Use a shovel or garden fork to mix it into the soil.
*Refer to instructions on the packaging to avoid overfeeding! -
Water in: If the soil is dry, give your rose a thorough drink of water after feeding.
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Keep a schedule: Mark your calendar so you remember to feed your roses as needed!
FAQs
Q: What is the best fertilizer for roses?
A: Balanced, slow-release formulas or organic options like alfalfa, bonemeal, or fish emulsion.
Q: Do you fertilize roses in the fall?
A: Only in the early fall. Stop fertilizing 6-8 weeks before the first frost to prevent new growth that could be damaged by harsh winter weather.
Q: Are coffee grounds good for roses?
A: Only in moderation. They do contain micronutrients that are beneficial to roses, but can do more harm than good if overused. They are never to be used as a replacement for a balanced fertilizer.
Q: When should you not fertilize roses?
A: Don’t feed roses within 6-8 weeks of your first frost date. This will help prepare them for winter dormancy.
Q: Are used tea bags good for rose bushes?
A: Yes – used tea bags can be used as natural amendments to give your roses a nitrogen boost and slightly lower soil acidity.
Q: Are eggshells good for roses?
A: Not particularly. It can be beneficial to mix them into your compost, but eggshells alone would take a very long time to make any impact.
From Nourish to Flourish
Fertilizing roses doesn’t have to be complicated. With a thoughtful feeding schedule and a steady, balanced fertilizer, your roses are sure to grow strong roots and produce beautiful blooms. Visit April & Ashley to browse our collection of premium rose bushes and bouquets that will grace your garden with timeless beauty.