4 days ago
Gardening hack using 1 item will keep rose bushes blooming for longer in summer heat
Roses need special care once the temperature starts to rise. Expert shares the simple mulching hack that will keep rose bushes blooming for longer in summer heat
Roses require extra attention during the scorching temperatures beyond mere watering, making it crucial to get them ready in June for a blooming summer. With rising heat, roses are prone to losing moisture swiftly through transpiration and soil evaporation, leading to their petals wilting.
Failure to safeguard your roses can abruptly curtail their flowering as intense heat causes blooms to fade and shed. Nonetheless, Tat, a horticulturist and the brains behind 'Roses In Houston,' has divulged an optimal method to maintain rose hydration without incessant watering.
Tat highlighted a common misconception, stating: "We all hear this advice to water, water and water during summer. But what if there is no rain and water restrictions in place? Does that mean it's the end of rose- gardening and we should call it quits?"
Tat, however, recommends mulching as the superior approach to keep roses adequately watered, which involves covering the topsoil surrounding the plants with material for protection, reports the Express.
Continuing her guidance, Tat shared: "Put on multiple layers of mulch (about two inches) at the base of your roses. Mulch helps retain moisture so that water and moisture won't escape from soil too fast after watering."
She emphasised her preference for an eco-friendly option, adding: "I prefer all-natural, no-dye version of mulch like hardwood and cedar so when they break down, it's better for the soil."
Mulching roses aids in reducing evaporation, thereby helping the soil retain more moisture and ensuring the roses stay hydrated throughout the summer. Mulch also provides insulation to the soil, preventing it from overheating, thus keeping the plant roots cool and undamaged regardless of the external temperature.
Hardwood is particularly effective at retaining water and is often considered the best mulch to use if you need to keep roses hydrated for extended periods without watering them.
If you're planning a holiday or anticipate hose restrictions in your area this summer, then hardwood mulch might be a good option.
However, cedar mulch not only retains some water but also contains oils that act as natural pest repellents, which can help deter ants, aphids, rose slugs and spider mites from feasting on your rose petals.
If you'll be home and able to water your roses regularly this summer, then consider using cedar mulch to help maintain their health.
Regardless of how you choose to mulch your roses, ensure to water them deeply a few times a week during the summer to guarantee they continue to bloom throughout their growing season.
The optimal time to water roses is early in the morning before 9am or late in the evening after 6pm when the sun has not risen, to minimise evaporation and help prolong the flowering period of the roses.
