Roses in Pelcomb Cross

Plant bare-root roses around 28th November - 8th March in well-prepared, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil. Spread the roots out, set the graft union just at or slightly below soil level, firm in well and water thoroughly straight after planting.

Keep the soil evenly moist through 20th November - 28th November while the roots settle. Water deeply at the base during dry spells, rather than little and often, and keep a mulch away from the stems.

From 23rd June to 8th November, remove faded flowers back to a strong leaf pair. This keeps repeat-flowering roses producing new buds for longer and helps keep the plant tidy.

Feed and water from 23rd June through 8th November to support repeat flowering. Use a balanced rose feed or general-purpose fertiliser, then water it in well and keep the area around the plant clear of fallen leaves.

Prune around 8th February - 10th March before strong growth starts. Remove dead, damaged and crossing shoots, then shorten the remaining stems to an outward-facing bud to keep an open shape and improve air flow.

After leaf drop around 25th October - 8th December, clear away fallen leaves and any diseased material from under the plant. Do not cut the shrub to the ground, just remove weak or crossing growth and leave the framework in place.