We review insect control, disease control and fertilizing. Remember the whole point of pruning and growing roses is to have the best flowers and color you can. Winter pruning is only one part of it.

In our climate we recommend fertilizing at the same time you prune. Because roses can grow all winter long here by fertilizing you get a jump-start on spring. A full application of Masters Rose and Flower Food is in order.

In addition our rose hobbyist friends are telling us about the benefits of Alfalfa meal. It increases the number and vigor of Basil breaks. These are the new canes that start down in the plant that allows you to renew the rose. Basil breaks are one of the most important benefits of winter pruning..

Again our rose hobbyist friends are telling us about the benefits of Sul-Po-Mag. They are telling us stories of improved color on their roses..

We recommend that the alfalfa meal and Sul-Po-Mag be applied in the winter and again in mid to late spring and again in early summer. Apply the rose food in the winter and again every 6 weeks until October for the best bloom.

In addition I talk about the benefits of a 2” organic mulch. It keeps the roots cool and healthy ready to really work for you. It slowly improves the texture of the soil. It helps prevent weed invasion and holds moisture longer. Plenty of reasons to invest in mulching.

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