We are having a discussion at Gardenweb in the Roses forum about
fertilizing.

Someone quoted Johnny Becnel (SP!) as saying most of us overferilize.
He apparently feeds a nine-month slow release and lets the roses rely
on mulch breakdown aside from that and a single application of
organics early in the season.

Thoughts?


Several thoughts on this:

Most nine month fertilizer doesn't last 9 months in warm climates. It is
designed for soil at a specific temerature, too cool and it feeds more slowly,
to warm and it breaks down very quickly. In the summer it will only last about
three months in my soil. Bethal Farms does produce a slow-release made for
warmer soils that may work better, but you have to look for it. Most people
buy the Osmocote and it does not last here.

It has been my experience that better fed roses are more disease resistant.
I've found a regular monthly application of fertilizer does as much to prevent
blackspot as weekly spraying. The combination of fertilizer and spray is the
only way I can keep BS somewhat under control on the HTs. In easier climates
there may not be as significant difference, but it does help here.

I don't use only synthetic fertilizer, but try to rotate the applications just
like I do fungicides. One month they get a synthetic, the next something
organic. This way I feel I'm feeding the soil as well as the roses.

My 2 cents worth, your mileage may vary.

Julie