Preparing For The End Of Season
Angie Noack

The months of November and December can be an awkward time for
many rosarians. While the growing season is coming to and end,
the winter hibernation season has not yet begun. Some of us
just don't know what to do with ourselves or our rose bushes
during this period of time.

Because your bushes are not yet in hibernation they still
require some attention from you. Water continues to be a prime
need, so make sure that the soil around their roots continues
to remain moist. Give them a good soaking as need be, but, as
always, don't over-water.

Water is an important part of your roses' winter survival
requirements and properly hydrated roots will help them stay
protected when the cold weather arrives.

Stop all pruning and deadheading activity so you do not
encourage new growth. You should have stopped applying organics
last month, and you don't want to apply any more fertilizer now
either. Your goal is to keep your roses healthy while, at the
same time, encouraging them to begin the process of going into
dormancy.

Continue spraying at least once each month to combat black
spot. Spider mites are still active during late autumn so keep
your eye out for them. Spritz your blooms and foliage with
water whenever you see signs of infestation. Aphids are also
active now, so have a bottle of soapy water ready to send them
packing.

Pick off any diseased leaves and rake away any fallen leaves
from your rose beds. This not only improves the appearance of
your garden, it also removes any disease residue which may be
still on the leaves.

This is also a good time to prepare your new rose holes and
rose beds for next year's growing season. They will have time
to "mellow" over the winter season and will be ready to accept
new bushes in spring.

Begin the process of piling mulch around your more delicate
varieties such as "St. Patrick", "Color Magic", "Oklahoma" and
"Signature". Your hardier varieties can wait until next month.
See our "Winter Gardening" article for mulching tips.

You worked hard all season to keep your roses healthy and
beautiful. If you did everything right, you were probably
rewarded with waves and waves of beautiful blooms. Your hard
work is almost over for the year, but don't neglect your roses
during these important final months.

Angie Noack is a home and garden strategist
with a sharp edge for technology. With her unique ability to
combine these two skills, she's able to help gardeners save
time and increase productivity. You can find her online at
http://www.rosecowboy.com


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