Roses are the most forgiving plants ever. It is amazing how they can live in the most adverse conditions.Especially mine. Honestly they are the only plants to live through my non-gardening 40s. No water, no pruning , no nothing.
I will admit to planting them properly . At the time I had horses and huge holes were dug with ample manure supplied. Roses LOVE horse manure. Dried of course as the wet ammonia of road apples can burn the roots.
With the killing of the trees came a huge mound of wood chips and logs for firewood. What to do? Why mulch the roses of course! They were trimmed for the first time in four years , given a proper fertilizing of Epsom salts , and a proper drip system. they look amazing.
Here's the first bloom of the season. If you look closely you can see the aphids and ants. Aphids won't kill your plant but they will suck the juices out of them and it can damage blooms. The only redeeming quality ants have is eating Aphids.
Normally I might leave the ants to their snack but the aphids far out numbered them. No problem , I power sprayed them with the hose . It works great. I will also make up a soapy spray of two tablespoons of liquid dish soap in a spray bottle of water. You can also boil some garlic in water , leave it overnight ,strain , and use it with your soap in the spray bottle.
Power spray the roses and apply your soapy concoction on a weekly basis and you have the cheapest and safest way to control this pest!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment