Roses are a beloved staple in British gardens, but keeping them blooming throughout the summer can be a challenge. Elise Harlock, brand manager at Prestige Flowers, emphasizes that with proper care, roses can thrive and bloom for an extended period. One of her top tips involves incorporating banana peels into your rose care routine.
Roses are heavy feeders, meaning they require a consistent supply of nutrients. Feeding them every four to six weeks is essential for healthy growth. Banana peels are a fantastic source of potassium, a crucial nutrient that supports blooming. Simply chop them up and bury them around the base of your rose bushes.
John Dempsey, a gardening expert at Housetstic, recommends applying two to three banana peels to the soil for newly planted roses. He suggests placing a chopped banana in the bottom of the planting hole before adding compost and soil around the new plant. This practice provides a significant advantage for young roses.
Banana peels offer various benefits for roses beyond potassium. They contain calcium, iron, copper, and manganese, contributing to overall plant health. Potassium boosts the immune system, preventing weak stems and dull leaves.
Pruning is another vital aspect of rose care. Regularly trimming back dead or diseased wood and deadheading spent flowers encourages new growth and prolongs the blooming season. You can easily snap off dead blooms or use sharp pruners.
Mulching is also crucial for maintaining healthy roses. It helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weeds, making it ideal for summer months. Using old newspapers as a base layer followed by organic mulch like bark or compost is a great eco-friendly option. This method not only helps the environment but also keeps your garden neat and tidy.
Following these expert tips on using banana peels, pruning, and mulching will help ensure your roses thrive and bloom throughout the summer, adding vibrant beauty to your garden.
