Ask the green thumb

A gardening expert digs into and answers your homegrown questions.

By Ann Wied
Brookfield, WI

Ann Wied is Consumer Horticulture Educator for the UW-Extension in Waukesha County, WI. She teaches gardeners through workshops, hands-on gardening programs and presentations. Ann has a bachelor’s degree in horticulture and agricultural journalism.

Faded Glory
Q: My rosebush blossomed the first year, but not in the 2 years since. What’s wrong?
—Jeanne Bathalon, Newport, VT

A: Several factors can affect your rose’s health and blooms, though without knowing the type you have or its growing conditions, it’s hard to give specific advice. Here’s a quick checklist:

Sunlight: Generally, roses need at least 6 hours a day.

Pruning: Some varieties may bloom only once a year, and others only on 2- or 3-year-old wood. So check recommendations for your variety before pruning so you don’t cut off buds by mistake.

Water: Roses like a lot of water, but not “wet feet.” Keep soil near the roots evenly moist.

Fertilizer: Consider a slow-release fertilizer, which works all season.

Winter protection: Shrub roses don’t need it, but most other vari-eties do. Mound soil around the base of canes to include the graft union. Or use a rose cone—but be sure to remove the top or punch holes in its side for adequate circu- lation. Remove cones on warm days in winter and early spring to keep temperatures inside from climbing too high.