The ancient Greeks identified 4 basic elements: earth, water, air and fire. Successful rose growing begins with proper attention to these same 4 basic elements. Get these right, and you're well on your way to classic rose growing in your own backyard:
- Soil (earth):
- Roses prefer a soil pH ranging from 6.5 to 6.8.
- Soils with good drainage are best for rose growing. When improving the soil through the use of soil amendments, don't forget to promote drainage by incorporating peat moss.
- Irrigation (water):
- Watering requirements depend greatly on conditions. But on the average, it is best to water rose bushes twice a week -- and to water them thoroughly. A regimen of two deep waterings per week is preferable to four shallower, less thorough waterings.
- Avoid late-evening watering, which could foster powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a very common disease among roses.
- Spacing (air)
- Rose growing in conditions where adequate spacing is not provided can foster powdery mildew, as well. Let your roses breathe: don't plant them too closely together. Follow spacing requirements for each particular variety when purchasing rose bushes, as indicated on the plant label.
- Sun (fire):
- Roses like six hours of sun per day
- Six hours of morning sun is preferable to six hours of afternoon sun.
To read a full article on rose growing, please consult Rose Color Meanings and Growing Rose Bushes.
