Roses require regular feedings to thrive and produce abundant blooms throughout the growing season. While rose feeding schedules can vary slightly depending on climate, type of rose, and soil conditions, most roses benefit from fertilizer applied every 4-6 weeks during active growth periods.
How often to feed rose bushes in spring
Spring is an important time to feed roses to support rapid growth as weather warms. Apply fertilizer when rose bushes begin actively growing and producing new leaves, usually around the time forsythia bushes bloom in your area. Roses entering their first year after planting should be fed lightly every 2 weeks during spring. Established roses can be fed every 4-6 weeks through early summer.
Early spring rose care
In early spring, apply a balanced granular fertilizer formulated for roses by scratching it lightly into the soil surface around drip lines. Slow-release organic options like compost, bone meal, or alfalfa meal also make excellent early spring feeds. Follow package directions for how much fertilizer to apply per plant.
Mid to late spring feeding
Increase rose feedings to every 4 weeks once spring growth is underway. Alternate between granular fertilizers to enrich the soil and liquid feeds like fish emulsion or seaweed extract to provide an immediate nutrient boost to leaves.
Here is an example feeding schedule for spring rose care:
| Spring month | Fertilizer type |
|---|---|
| Early April | Granular balanced fertilizer |
| Early May | Liquid fish emulsion |
| Early June | Granular balanced fertilizer |
How often to feed roses in summer
Roses need less fertilizer during hot summer months when growth naturally slows. Continue feeding every 4-6 weeks but reduce amounts by half. Stick with gentle liquid fertilizers like compost tea, fish emulsion, or seaweed solutions to prevent salt buildup in soil during summer.
Organic summer rose foods
Organic fertilizers are ideal for summer rose care since they break down slowly and won’t burn plants in heat. Here are some great organic options:
- Compost or worm tea – Provide a nutrient boost from decomposed organic matter.
- Fish emulsion – Delivers quick nitrogen, phosphorus, and micronutrients.
- Kelp or seaweed extract – Supplies potassium, iron, and over 60 trace elements.
- Manure tea – Boosts soil microbial activity and rose health.
Precautions when feeding roses in summer
Avoid overfeeding roses during heat waves which can scorch roots and leaves. Never apply granular fertilizers in summer which may burn. Check soil moisture before feeding and water roses deeply the day before to prevent fertilizer salt damage.
How often to fertilize roses in fall
Roses need nutrients in fall to support the second flush of blooms on repeat-blooming varieties. Resume normal fertilizer applications every 4-6 weeks from late summer until about 6 weeks before the average first frost date in your area.
Fall feeding schedule
Here is a sample fall fertilizing routine for repeat-blooming rose bushes:
| Fall month | Fertilizer used |
|---|---|
| Late August | Balanced granular fertilizer |
| Late September | Fish emulsion |
| Late October | Compost tea |
Rose foods to use in fall
Choose gentle organic fertilizers in fall to protect rose root systems going into winter dormancy. Excellent options include:
- Compost and worm teas
- Manure tea
- Fish emulsion
- Seaweed extract
- Soft rock phosphate – Boosts blooms
Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers in fall which can promote damaging new growth vulnerable to frost damage.
When to stop fertilizing roses for winter
Stop feeding roses about 6 weeks before your average first frost date. Later fertilization can disrupt the dormancy process, leaving roses prone to winter damage.
Here are some signs it’s time to stop fertilizing roses for winter:
- Night temperatures drop below 45°F.
- Rose leaves start changing color.
- Bloom production slows.
- Soft new growth is no longer present.
Discontinue fertilizer applications if these signals of winter dormancy begin earlier than 6 weeks before your first frost date.
Final winterizing feed
Offer roses one last gentle feeding about 6-8 weeks before frost to harden growth. Compost tea, manure tea, or alfalfa meal are great fertilizer options. Reduce amounts to about 1/4 of normal feeding rates.
Special case rose feeding guidelines
While most roses thrive on a 4 to 6 week feeding schedule, some special cases require tailored fertilizing routines.
Newly planted roses
Young roses in their first year after planting have shallow root systems and need more frequent feeding. Apply lightweight liquid feeds like compost tea every 2 weeks to newly planted roses.
Container-grown roses
Roses growing in pots have limited access to soil nutrients. Feed container roses every 2-4 weeks according to package rates with a water-soluble rose fertilizer. Watch for nutrient deficiencies like yellowing leaves.
Climbing roses
Give extra fertilizer to vigorous climbing rose varieties that can stretch 10 feet or more in a season. Increase feeding frequency to every 2-3 weeks during active growth periods.
Conclusion
Following a seasonal feeding schedule tailored to your climate will provide roses with a continuous supply of nutrients for stellar performance. While rose fertilizing programs vary, aim to feed most established roses every 4-6 weeks during active growth periods in spring and fall. Reduce feeding frequency and amounts during hot summer months to avoid burn. Finally, cease fertilization at least 6 weeks before expected first frost to support winter hardening. With the right fertilizer applied at the proper intervals, your roses will thrive and delight all season long.