Fertilizing roses

From Gardening Wiki

Artificial Manures for Roses

Q. I am unable to obtain farmyard manure. What is the best artificial fertiliser to use ?

A. What is known as Tonks' manure is an excellent preparation, and should be applied in February at the rate of j Ib. to 1 square yard of surface. It is compounded as follows : Superphosphate of lime, 12 parts ; nitrate of potash, 10 parts ; sulphate of magnesia, 2 parts; sulphate of iron, 1 part; sulphate of lime, 8 parts. It should be well hoed in or lightly forked in.

Dried Blood as Manure

Q. I shall be glad to know whether, 1, this manure can be suc- cessfully used in the growth of Roses, and if so, whether, 2, it should be incorporated with the soil when trenching?

A. This is a very useful stimulant for all crops, but should only be applied during the growing season. Apply about 1 oz. to the square yard at intervals of two weeks, from May to July, forking or hoeing it into the surface soil.

Half-inch Bones for Roses

Q. Will you enlighten me on the following ? I have been told that if 4-inch bones are mixed with the soil in which Roses are to be planted, it makes them produce superabundance of roots and little top. Also that it produces mildew, which works from the roots upwards. Is this so ?

A. There is no truth in the assertion that bones are injurious to Roses, in fact it is the other way about, as you may see if you turn out a pot Rose in which bones have been mixed with the soil. Every little rootlet will quickly lay hold of the small particles. Half-inch bones are more durable for outside planting. We should advise about l Ib. to 2 Ib. to 2 bushels of soil, or say, two handfuls for each plant, well mixing it with the soil. There should be farmyard manure applied at the same time if possible. Both standards and Ramblers benefit by the application of 4-inch bones.