Ben Tuinman wrote:

I would like to fertilize it, and wonder if
anyone can give me some ideas as to what kind of fertilizer (numbers) to
use, how often, and any other suggestions to promote healthy growth in this
beautiful rose.

My roses seem to enjoy a little fertilizer over a longer period
of time rather than one shot and goodbye. Organic stuff is good
if you have acess to aged manure. For chemical fertilizer I have
used half strength Miracle Grow every other week up to August
when you should stop so that the rose can begin to thik about
getting ready for winter. Some recommend about a 1/4 cup of a
balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 spread around the base of
the plant once a month.

The David Thompson Explorer is a Rugosa type plant and most
likely shares with other Rugosa roses a serious dislike of
chemical fertilizer. The first paragraph does not apply to
Rugosa roses. I would go very easy with the fertilizer. Maybe
just a little compost in the fall or spring. If you feel you
must fertilize, try liquid seaweed and fish emulsion at 1/2
strength dilution or weaker and be sure to keep it off the
leaves.

Regards,

Charles
--
Charles Perry
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