Question
Hi Carlene...I have some mini roses and some climbers. I live in zone 6/7 and the weather has been rather mild this year so my roses are putting on a lot of new life. My question: Should I feed them now? I have been told late March or early April. What say you? Thanks in advance.
    Impatient Lady Bonnie

Answer
Hi Bonnie-

I would check the dates of the last known freezes in your area.  If the last average freeze in your area is March or early April - it is best to not fertilize until the day after the last known freeze. If you must fertilize before that date - please do not use chemical fertilizers.  If you just have to fertilize now, use cow manure or compost which will naturally improve the soil for a slower more gradual bloom period.

The problem with fertilizing too soon with chemical fertilizers - it will cause vigorous new growth, and if there is a hard freeze, the new growth will be killed, and it will be  a waste of fertilizer, and won't help the rosebush any.  Sometimes it pays to be patient!

Keep smelling the roses!

Carlene
aka the Flowerlady