One simple task this month will have your roses blooming beautifully – not pruning

Roses are often considered the crown jewels of any garden, with their gorgeous blooms and rich fragrances. While roses aren’t as high-maintenance as they sometimes seem, starting a rose  can still seem like a daunting task for any gardening newbies.

LeAnne Samuelson, gardening expert at Prestige Botanicals, has highlighted one task that should be done this month but is often overlooked in favour of pruning. While pruning is certainly important, March is the perfect month to fertilise your . Giving your roses the right nutrients at this time of year will ensure they have everything they need to grow strong and healthy, ready to bloom beautifully when the blooming season kicks off.

LeAnne said: “The key is to apply a high-quality rose fertiliser that offers a good balance of nutrients. When you feed your roses as they emerge from their dormancy, it gives them the boost they need for lush growth and stunning flowers.”

When it comes to picking a fertiliser, you can choose either organic or synthetic fertilisers. LeAnne advises that you check which will be best for your goals ahead of time.

Before you start fertilising your roses, ensure your hands are protected with gloves. Then, grab a hand fork and clear away any weeds, dead leaves, or debris around the base of your rose.

Then, sprinkle the recommended amount of fertiliser around the base of your roses, ensuring that you cover the area around the width of the canopy.

LeAnne said: “For even distribution, gently work the fertiliser into the surrounding soil using the fork. If the soil feels dry, give your rose a good drink of water to help it take in the nutrients.

“After feeding, don’t forget to mulch. A layer of mulch around the base of your rose will help retain moisture, prevent weeds, and provide essential nutrients as your plant continues to grow.

“This small extra step makes a huge difference in helping your roses thrive.”