May

1. Thin out any excess shoots emerging from base of bushes.

2. Check new growth for signs of greenfly or small caterpillars.

3. If required, start spraying with a suitable insecticide.

4. Weed beds regularly.

5. Obtain show schedules as early as possible.

6. Make a final check of show equipment.

Start spray programme against pests and disease.

Cut back blind shoots.

Start disbudding flowering stems.

 June

1. Start regular spray programme against pests and disease (every 2-3 weeks)

2. Water, if necessary when conditions are dry.

3. Liquid feed for extra bloom size and colour.

4. Check for, and cut back blind shoots.

5. Start disbudding of flowering stems. Remove side buds of Large Flowered varieties and truss centre buds of Cluster Flowered varieties.

6. Position bloom protectors or bags over buds when they show colour.

7. Obtain a supply of fresh moss from woodland or riverside and keep this fresh by watering occasionally.

 June

Apply third application of fertiliser at beginning of the month, hoe and water in.

The last spray is usually applied 10-14 days before your first rose show, so get your timing right and make this a good spray.

Protect blooms directly after your spray application is dry. About the second or third week in the month depending on your show dates.

Check protected blooms daily.

 July

1. Apply dressing of rose fertiliser, and water in if conditions are dry.

2. Protective spray must be applied during the first few days of the month. This will avoid the need to spray again until the first main flush of roses is over.

3. Continue bloom protection; check bloom development daily.

4. Tie promising roses which may produce specimen blooms.

5. Cut blooms required for exhibition on the evening before the show or the morning of the show.

6. Cut back stems not used for show, immediately after flowering.

7. Bud rootstocks after rain, or water thoroughly two days before budding.

 July

Cut roses and leave in deep cool water, in the shade, for a number of hours before using.

Summer pruning of roses starts mid to late July to suit Autumn show dates.

Feed and spray after pruning, water any granular feed in if the weather is dry. Remember foliar feeds can be added to your insecticides spay in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions whenever thought desirable.

 August

1. Apply final dressing of rose fertiliser during first two weeks of the month.

2. Continue spraying programme; change constituents to avoid insect and disease resistance build up.

3. Foliar feed if conditions are very dry or very wet.

4. Water if necessary.

5. Check on new varieties at shows. Obtain new catalogues and order new roses as soon as possible for the coming season.

6. Start preparation of new rose beds towards end of the month.

 August