Ann

To prune roses in fall, remove diseased wood, shorten tall stems, and disinfect tools. After pruning, spray with Dormant Spray Oil to kill overwintering pests and prevent fungal diseases, then mulch for winter protection. Why Sanitary Pruning Matters in Fall Autumn pruning isn’t about shaping — it’s about cleansing and protecting.As roses slow their growth

Every year, autumn offers us a quiet promise: if we put our roses to bed well, spring will wake them beautifully. Think of your autumn care as a bridge between seasons – steady, intentional, and reliable. On one side: the long work of summer. On the other hand, spring’s first buds. This article is your

Key Takeaways Poor soil quality is the #1 hidden cause of weak roses Roses prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0–7.0) Good drainage prevents root rot (“roses hate wet feet”) Proper spacing avoids root competition and stunted growth Mulching roses and monthly compost tea build living soil Right planting depth & timing are critical for long-term

By Ann Devis — science-minded, soil-loving rose geek with muddy knees and a notebook full of field notes. Roses aren’t fragile princesses; they’re athletes. Given the right conditions, they outgrow pests, shrug off disease, and flower like they mean it. What gets in the way isn’t the plant—it’s the myths we inherit. Let’s retire five

Healthy roses don’t just rely on sprays. They thrive when you stack the ecosystem in their favor so predators and parasitoids keep pests in check. The good news: you can attract a working army of beneficial insects without purchasing or releasing anything. You’ll give them three things—food, shelter, water—then let biology do the rest. Below

As summer draws to a close, the air turns softer, and the first golden leaves signal that the gardening year is shifting gears. For rose lovers, August and September aren’t the time to slow down — they’re the months to prepare your roses for a strong, healthy winter rest and a breathtaking spring comeback.These late-summer

When the garden thermometer climbs past 90°F (32°C) and stays there for days on end, even the hardiest rose can begin to wilt under pressure. If your blooms are turning brown before they open, buds are getting crisp on the tips, or your bush looks tired no matter how much you water, you’re not alone.