Stephen Kohley, owner of Sonny Alexander Florist and Flower Delivery, said the key to beautiful lies in mastering both and control. "I take care of my with precise and vigilant to make sure they stay healthy and bloom beautifully year after year," says shop owner Stephen.
Whether you're nurturing old English climbers or modern hybrids, the same basic principles apply - start early, stay observant, and stick to a smart routine. With just a bit of effort and know-how, even the most novice gardener can enjoy that put on a dazzling display from late spring right into autumn.
PruningGetting pruning right is the foundation of strong, healthy rose bushes that bloom repeatedly throughout the season.
Stephen advises that pruning should have started in spring, which would have helped to shape the plant, improve airflow around the bush and encourage new growth.
Any time you prune a rose bush, it's imperative to have clean, sharp secateurs to remove any dead, damaged, or crisscrossing stems, which can hinder healthy development and allow pests and fungi to take hold.
DeadheadingOnce the season is in full swing, - removing faded blooms - is a simple but powerful way to keep roses flowering generously.
Stephen notes that "most modern roses delight me with blooms from late spring all the way into fall", especially when he's regularly snipping away spent flowers to encourage more buds to form.
MulchingMulching is another vital step, helping to lock in moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent fungal spores from splashing up onto the leaves during watering or rain.
A good organic mulch, applied around the base of the plant, not only supports healthy root systems but also suppresses weeds.
Pest controlEven the most beautiful rose gardens aren't immune to pests, and vigilance is key when it comes to keeping them in check without harming beneficial insects.
"For pest prevention, the goal is maintaining good air circulation and watering the bases to keep the leaves dry," Stephen says, adding that he uses natural barriers like lavender and garlic as companion plants to deter aphids and other unwanted visitors.
When issues do arise, Stephen turns to neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays.
Consistent careUltimately, it's not just what you do but how consistently you do it that leads to rose garden success.
"By sticking to a schedule of consistent pruning and keeping an eye out for pests, I make sure that my roses remain lovely and flourishing throughout the growing season," says Stephen.
Regular inspection allows gardeners to catch problems early, while timely maintenance tasks ensure that energy is directed into flower production rather than fighting disease.
The reward is a garden filled with colour, scent, and structure - one that not only turns heads in June, but continues to impress well into the autumn months.