Rose Gardening

January 2007

By Gene Joyner, Extension Agent
Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service

This month there’s little that needs to be done or is required to be done in your rose garden except to keep weeds under control. Most roses are doing quite well with our cooler temperatures and there’s not a lot of disease present unless you’re guilty of overwatering.

If you want to plant roses, they can be planted any time of the year and this time of year make sure that you check plants regularly for signs of spider mites which build up during the winter season. Also cooler temperatures often increase mildew problems with certain varieties so make sure you check your garden at least once a week and look for potential problems.

If you want to keep weeds under control during the winter season, make sure your mulch layers are at least 3 to 4 inches thick in your garden. If you aren’t mulching, you’re really missing an opportunity to keep weeds at bay and keep your garden more attractive.

If you have questions on specific rose problems that might show up during the winter season, check with fellow members at monthly meetings or you can contact your local office of the Cooperative Extension Service.