As temperatures rise in late May, gardeners are being advised to feed their rose bushes to ensure a healthy and vibrant bloom. Warm weather can quickly drain nutrients from the soil, leaving roses with fewer and smaller flowers.
Gardening expert Nell Foster, from Joyus Garden, has shared her advice for keeping rose plants thriving during the season. She says feeding them multiple times during summer is essential.
“You need to feed annuals and roses two or three times during summer,” Nell said. “They flower like crazy and need the nourishment to keep going.”
Rather than using chemical fertilizers or expensive products, Nell recommends a simple, natural mix that’s both affordable and effective.
The key ingredient is alfalfa meal — a plant-based fertilizer that provides essential nitrogen. Nitrogen is vital for strong leaves and stems, which help support more flowers. Alfalfa meal is gentle, organic, and widely available at garden centers.
Without proper nutrients, rose bushes struggle to produce buds, resulting in a disappointing display. A regular feeding schedule, especially with the right mix, can make a big difference in how your roses perform.
By feeding your roses with this three-ingredient mix now, you’ll give them the strength they need to flower beautifully all season long.
