From my school days, I realized that Labor Day weekend signified the end of summer and the return to work. Now, after Labor Day, it still means getting back to work, but this time it’s all about tending to my roses.
September brings the hope of fresh growth and lovely flowers to enjoy with our loved ones. It’s an ideal moment to trim any overgrown plants and prepare them for their October and November blooms. As the temperatures start to drop, your plants will produce bigger flowers, which is especially important with the Mesa East Valley Rose Show coming up on November 16.
Pruning
Many rose enthusiasts prefer to do a light pruning of their rose bushes in September to prepare for the autumn blooming period. It’s best to trim back the roses by no more than one-third. Additionally, removing rose hips helps redirect energy towards new growth instead of seed production.
Planting
Take a leisurely walk through your nearby nursery or browse the catalogs from your favorite online suppliers. It’s the perfect moment to start planning for the 2025 season. Consider getting some new roses to pot in late September and October, allowing them to establish a strong root system for the upcoming year.
Water
It’s best to water your plants either early in the morning or after 6 pm when the sun isn’t shining directly. With temperatures hovering around 100 degrees until the end of September, we likely won’t see any cooling until October. For roses planted in the ground, watering every other day should suffice, while established container roses will need daily watering. New roses in smaller containers may require watering twice a day until they grow stronger.
Fertilizer
In September, resume the regular or recommended fertilization levels to encourage autumn blooms. Applying fertilizer is essential for keeping the soil active, which helps avoid nutrient shortages in both the rose bushes and the soil itself. It’s vital to water the roses prior to fertilizing to ensure they are adequately hydrated before and after applying any fertilizer, whether it’s liquid or granular. Always follow the fertilizer guidelines to avoid over-fertilization, as too much can be detrimental to the roses.
Insects
During the hot summer months, most insects tend to vanish, but spider mites remain a notable exception. These minuscule pests resemble tiny grains of sand found on the underside of rose leaves. To manage spider mites, it’s important to reduce dust accumulation. A strong spray of water on both the top and bottom of the leaves can help keep them clean. Additionally, check for predatory mites that can assist in controlling the spider mite population.
Diseases
The Valley of the Sun is still experiencing significant dryness, yet we hold onto hope for some rain in September. Should the weather turn wet, gardeners should be vigilant for powdery mildew and rust. If you find that your roses are affected by these diseases, it’s essential to treat them with the right fungicide.
Important Self Care
• Start your gardening tasks in the early morning with the right tools at hand.
• Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your time in the garden.
• Opt for a wide-brimmed hat while gardening. Many gardeners also recommend wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed-toe shoes to protect yourself – especially if you happen to drop your pruners. Personally, I often opt for a t-shirt and shorts, which unfortunately results in scratches and cuts from my rose bushes. This isn’t the best choice, especially when my wife sees me wandering around the house with bleeding arms.
