Fertilizing roses is key to ensuring healthy growth, vibrant blooms, and long-lasting plants. The best time to fertilize rose bushes depends on the season and the growth stage of the plant. Generally, roses should be fertilized starting in early spring, just as new growth begins. This gives the plant the nutrients it needs to develop strong stems and lush foliage as it prepares for the blooming season.
Early Spring: Begin fertilizing when you see new growth or the buds start to swell. This is typically in March or April, depending on your climate. Fertilizing during this period helps provide essential nutrients that encourage healthy leaf development and strong stem growth. Use Perfect Rose fertilizer by dissolving 1 heaping tablespoon (15 ml) per gallon of water and applying about half a gallon of the solution per plant. Repeat the application every 7-14 days for best results.
After the First Bloom: After the first bloom cycle, it’s a good time to fertilize again to support the plant as it enters its next growth phase. Roses are heavy feeders, meaning they need regular feeding to continue producing vibrant blooms throughout the season. Continue applying Perfect Rose fertilizer every 7-14 days to give the plant the nutrients it needs for subsequent bloom cycles.
Mid-Summer: If your roses are still blooming, provide an additional round of fertilization in mid-summer to keep them looking their best. At this time, roses are actively producing flowers, and the extra boost from a balanced fertilizer will support their ongoing growth and flowering.
Stop Fertilizing in Late Summer: Avoid fertilizing after August or early September, especially in colder climates, as this can encourage new growth that may not harden off before winter. The last feeding should be given 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost. This allows the plant to prepare for dormancy rather than promoting new, tender growth that might be damaged by cold weather.
For regions with mild winters, you may continue feeding roses lightly during the cooler months. If you're growing roses in pots, continue using Perfect Rose fertilizer according to the instructions for container plants (1 tablespoon per 1.25 gallons of water).
Get Perfect Rose fertilizer here.