ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

TAKE CARE OF ROSES THIS FALL

AUBURN, OCT. 29---Roses welcome the relief of cooler days. By following a few helpful hints, growers can extend rose blooms this fall and help prevent overwintering disease problems next spring, says Dr. Dave Williams, Extension horticulturist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

As the smaller blooms of late summer fade, prune roses by removing small unproductive canes, especially those crossing into the center of the plant, says Williams.

"Prune vigorous canes 1/4 inch above a five-leaflet branch growing to the outside of the plant. Also, remove all diseased or dead canes. The stimulation of pruning and the onset of cooler nights will encourage new growth and good flower color."

Continued disease and insect control sprays are important to maintain healthy foliage, which is necessary to produce flowers.

"It's a good practice to replace mulch around roses at least once each year. Fall is an especially good time to replace mulch because fallen rose leaves, which harbor disease spores such as blackspot, can be removed," Williams adds.

Pine straw is an excellent mulch to use around rose bushes and should be readily available this time of year.

SOURCE: DR. DAVE WILLIAMS, Extension horticulturist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, (334) 844-3032.