How to Fertilize Roses in the Spring

Spring fertilization encourages healthy rose growth all summer.

Roses require certain nutrients to grow and blossom. Nitrogen, signified by the first number in a fertilizer blend, encourages healthy foliage and stem growth. The second number on the fertilizer package, phosphorus, helps encourage blooming and strong greenery. Potassium, the final number, is for vigorous growth and the overall health of the roses. A spring application of a slow-release fertilizer leaches into the soil all summer long, ensuring the rose bush receives nutrients when it needs them.

Things You'll Need

• Fertilizer
• Hand rake

Instructions

1. Fertilize the roses in late April or early May, once the rose bush is actively growing and no longer dormant. Apply the fertilizer early in the day so any moisture from watering has time to evaporate off the plant.

2. Apply a half cup of 10-10-10 analysis, slow-release fertilizer 6 inches out from the base of the rose plant. Spread the fertilizer over a 1-foot swath of soil encircling the rose bush.

3. Rake over the fertilized soil with a handheld rake or cultivator. Work the fertilizer into the top 2 to 3 inches of soil with the rake.

4. Water the rose bush immediately after fertilizing, moistening the top 6 inches of soil. Immediate watering ensures the fertilizer leaches down into the root zone, where it provides the most benefit to the plant.

5. Rinse off the lower leaves as you water, removing any fertilizer dust that may have come in contact with the foliage. Fertilizer on the leaves can cause burning and damage to the rose.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer a soluble or quick-release fertilizer, you will need to reapply it every six to eight weeks throughout summer.

• Do not over-fertilize, as this can cause damage or even death to the rose bush.

References

• University of Missouri Extension: Fertilizing Roses
• University of Illinois Extension: Water, Mulch and Fertilizer