Regional rose tasks for November

Summer rainfall Continue watering twice a week and fertilise with Vigorosa. Large beetles can be controlled by spraying with a double dose of Cyper or Plant Care. For smaller insects (thrips, aphids, bollworm) spray with Ludwig’s Insect Spray twice a month. Cut off dead blooms to encourage new growth.

Winter rainfall If the rains have stopped, water deeply once a week (grey water is fine). If rainy weather is ongoing, spray fortnightly with a ‘cocktail’ of Chronos, Ludwig’s Insect Spray and a sticker such as Picanta to prevent black spot and downy mildew. Fertilise with Vigorosa in mid-November. Pinch off the tips of new basal stems to make them stronger so they can withstand wind better.

Lowveld and KwaZulu-Natal coast Make sure beds are well mulched (2–5cm deep) and water twice a week. Fertilise with Vigorosa. Control pests and fungal disease with the cocktail described above. Regularly deadhead roses to keep them neat and to encourage new shoots.