Roses for the Home
Roses for the Home by J.Lee Taylor, Department of Horticulture
Michigan State University
Roses are one of the most popular garden flowers. They can be grown in almost all areas of the North Central region and are adapted to many decorative purposes. New cultivars are introduced each year and are available in a wide range of colors and forms.
Many types of roses are available for planting on lawns and borders, for growing on arbors and trellises, for specimen tree roses, for use as bedding plants or hedges, and as a source of cut flowers. For successful results in growing garden roses, follow these tips:
- Buy vigorous plants from a reputable nursery, garden center or mail-order nursery. - Select a planting sit that receives at least 6 hours of sunshine daily. - Set plants in well-prepared beds. - Water plants weekly unless rain-fall equals at least 1 inch. - Cut flowers from the plant without damaging the main parts of the plants. - Prune plants as needed or remove dead or damaged wood and to shape the bush. - Spray regularly to control pests. - Protect plants from winter injury. - Prune dead flowers to encourage repeat blooming.
