Small Flowers on 'Peace' and 'Mr. Lincoln' Roses: Mineral Deficiency

Variety Expectation vs. Reality

'Peace' and 'Mr. Lincoln' are large-flowered hybrids. If blooms are small, it's not genetic—it's cultural.

Likely Causes

• Trace mineral deficiency (especially calcium).
• Excess nitrogen (from lawn fertilizer runoff or overfeeding).

Corrective Program

• Apply rock dust for minerals.
• Add compost and acid mulch.
• Spray compost tea or milk (1 cup per ½ gallon water).
• Use organic rose fertilizer; avoid high-N products.
• Check for lawn fertilizer contamination.

Large-flowered roses demand mineral-rich, balanced nutrition.