On Thu, 4 Mar 2004 10:32:02 -0500, "Sandy" wrote:

I agree with you, Dave, about not pruning any branches. Now I'm curious
about why my rose blooms only once, with maybe a few intermittent blooms
later in the season. I'm thinking that maybe I should increase/change the
fertilizer applications. I've been using only Epson Salts for this purpose,
since I try to use only organic materials on my plants.

I wouldn't worry too much about it actually. There are supposedly both
kinds of climbers, once-blooming and ever-blooming. In fact, there's
some question as to whether they're both actually CB.

If all you are using is Epson Salts though, I'd recommend getting some
alfalfa meal, blood meal, bone meal and fish emulsion to augment.
Plus, a good heaping of compost is a good idea as well. Work all of
those well into the soil and put a light layer of mulch over all of
it.

I happen to use commercial fertilzers as well (Osmocote initially,
then the occasional Miracle-Gro type liquid periodically - I also add
more Osmocote about mid-way through the season). But that's something
that you have decided to forgo and that's cool. It probably won't
change the bloom cycle since that's probably genetically programmed in
your case. I wouldn't necessarily say this for all roses, but this
variety definitely has a once-blooming version, and that's probably
what you have.

My rose is against
the side of my garden shed with a Kousa Dogwood tree in front of the
rosebush. The rose has partially climbed onto the dogwood, similar to your
rose.
Your pictures are wonderful! Thanks. Sandy

Thanks, Sandy.