Washing-up liquid and newspaper are among the surprising household items that can keep your garden roses vibrant and beautiful all summer long, according to an expert. Rose bushes are a quintessential feature in British gardens, making a striking statement with their lush, colourful blooms.
Elise Harlock, brand manager at Prestige Flowers, has highlighted the importance of simple, effective techniques to maintain your roses’ health and beauty.
“Roses are the stars of the garden, and with a bit of care, they can shine all season,” she said. To keep your roses in top shape, Elise shares some of her best tips and clever hacks.
Pest control with dish soap
“Roses are susceptible to pests like aphids and spider mites, which can diminish their beauty,” explains Elise. “A quick and easy solution is to mix a few drops of washing-up liquid in a spray bottle filled with water.
“Spray this mixture directly on the affected areas once a week to keep pests at bay. It’s a gentle yet effective method that won’t harm your roses.”
Regular feeding and watering
“Roses are heavy feeders,” Elise said. “They need a consistent supply of nutrients to thrive.” She recommends using a balanced fertiliser every four to six weeks. “You can also use banana peels. They’re rich in potassium, which supports blooming. Just chop them up and bury them around the base of your rose bushes.”
Proper hydration is equally crucial. “Ensure your roses receive deep watering once a week, especially during dry periods,” she continued. “Using a soaker hose is a great way to deliver water directly to the roots without wasting a drop.”
Pruning and deadheading
“Pruning is essential to keep your roses healthy and vigorous,” Elise said. “Trim back dead or diseased wood and regularly deadhead spent flowers. This encourages new growth and extends the blooming season.”
She added: “You can simply snap off dead blooms with your fingers or use a pair of sharp pruners.”
Mulching with a twist
“Mulching helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds,” Elise explained. “But here’s a clever hack: use old newspapers.
“Lay a few layers around your roses and cover them with organic mulch like bark or compost. This not only helps the environment by recycling paper but also keeps your garden neat and tidy.”
Epsom salt for an extra boost
“Epsom salt is a fantastic, often overlooked tool for rose care,” Elise said. “It provides magnesium, which is essential for photosynthesis and overall plant health.
She added: “Dissolve a tablespoon of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and spray your roses monthly. This will enhance their colour and vitality.”