Potted rose care tips and advice

Roses are one of the most popular of all cut flowers that you will find at your florist. For this reason, they have also proven popular as garden and potted plants. If you have a potted rose plant and you want to make sure that it thrives enough to bloom year after year, you need to keep the following tips in mind.

Sunlight and water needs

Your potted rose will need to be placed in an area that receives enough heat and sunlight. They don’t like to get too cold and they could use a bit of direct sunlight to help your plant produce plenty of food. The fact that they enjoy the heat means that you can expect the soil to dry out faster than that of a plant set in the shade. It is best to check the dampness of the soil by inserting your finger just a few centimetres deep. If it is still damp, wait another day or two to water. If it is dry, water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away before placing the pot back.

Get rid of bugs

Just like other plants, your potted rose can be vulnerable to several types of insects. It is important to keep an eye on the plant to make sure that it does end up being eaten to the point of no return. Larger bugs can be physically removed whereas smaller ones can be wiped away or killed using the appropriate insecticide. Soapy water is a highly effective and safe way of removing various critters from your rose plant.

Added nutrients

All plants need a source of food and, because your potted rose is rooted in a small amount of soil, you will need to replenish the nutrients within the soil. Fertilizer helps you do this and you will be happy to note that there are fertilizers that are specifically designed for roses.

Regular pruning

Several types of plants, including potted roses, need to be pruned from time to time. This process helps encourage healthy growth. It is important to prune during the dormant stage of the growth cycle so that your plant will enjoy increased growth during the following season. Cut the stems just below each spent flower and make sure that you cut at a 45 degree angle for best results.

These are some of the most important tips to remember when caring for your potted rose. Once it produces blooms, you will enjoy all the fruit of your efforts. When the flowers start to wilt, you can cut them and use the petals to make your very own potpourri or even make pressed petals for various crafts.