Liquid Fertilizer for Roses

Liquid fertilizers are a good supplement for garden roses.

The gorgeous rose has more nutritional needs than other plants, according to Herbs2000.com, and supplemental fertilizing is necessary to have the best-performing roses. Applying liquid fertilizer is part of the fertilizing regimen for roses. Fortunately, it is easy to do.

Fertilizer Basics

Fertilizers are called "complete" if they contain the three nutrients that are most important for plant growth: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The percentages of the nutrients are listed in the order N-P-K on the fertilizer label. For example, the numbers 5-10-5 in a typical dry fertilizer formulation for roses mean the fertilizer contains 5 percent nitrogen, 10 percent phosphorus and 5 percent potassium, according to Herbs2000.com.

Fertilizer for Roses

Nitrogen stimulates the early spring growth of roses, gives a deep green color to the plant, and promotes stem and leaf growth. Phosphorus, necessary for photosynthesis, promotes root growth and flower production. Potassium regulates metabolism, makes the roses resistant to disease, and gives them hardiness, vigor and good flower color, according to Herbs2000.com.

Definition

Liquid fertilizers are dry or liquid concentrates of water-soluble inorganic fertilizers, according to Herbs2000.com. They are mixed with water before they are applied. Follow directions on the label for amount to apply, which depends on the formulation.

Considerations

According to Herbs 2000.com, liquid fertilizers are most appropriate for container roses, which need to be watered often. Frequent watering can make dry fertilizers leach away before they can act. Since liquid fertilizers are water soluble, their ingredients are released immediately. However, they need to be applied frequently, which makes them inconvenient for roses in the garden. Herbs2000.com recommends using liquid fertilizers as a supplement for garden roses.

Application

Herbs2000.com recommends applying liquid fertilizers as often as every two weeks, using a watering can or sprayer to pour them over the ground or spray them on the foliage. According to Herbs 2000.com, fertilizer applied to foliage is put to use more quickly than fertilizers applied to roots. Do not apply liquid fertilizers to foliage when the temperature is above 90 degrees F, however, because rapid evaporation will make the fertilizers more concentrated and they may burn the plants.

References

• Herbs 2000: Fertilizers for Roses

Resources

• BNET: Sunset: "What About the New Liquid Fertilizers?"