As temperatures rise and sunlight intensifies in summer, roses gradually enter a semi-dormant state. It's essential to strengthen care and management efforts to ensure their safe summering. Here are the key points:
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Watering: Due to high temperatures, roses require ample watering. It's recommended to water thoroughly before 9 a.m. and supplement if necessary in the evening, ensuring the soil is dry before watering again.
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Shading: Protect roses from direct sunlight by providing appropriate shading. Place potted roses under trees or pergolas with good ventilation from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to create optimal growing conditions.
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Pruning: Besides deadheading, trim overgrown branches by retaining three-fourths of their length and removing blind shoots, drooping branches, and weak ones to ensure the healthiest parts survive summer.
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Fertilizing: With roses in a semi-dormant state, excessive fertilization can damage roots due to increased fermentation in high temperatures. Control fertilization to once every 15-20 days with diluted liquid fertilizer, increasing dosage towards the end of summer.
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Ventilating: Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows frequently during hot summers. Good airflow reduces humidity and temperature, minimizing root rot, promoting strong growth, and reducing the likelihood of pests and diseases.
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Pest Control: Summer brings an abundance of pests such as aphids, red spiders, and thrips. Regularly inspect rose growth and implement preventive measures. Use pesticides like abamectin, imidacloprid, or avermectin for effective pest control, preferably before 8 a.m. or in the evening to avoid toxicity from high temperatures.
Overall, ensuring the safe summering of roses requires careful attention to watering, pruning, shading, and other critical care practices. Additionally, expect some yellowing or leaf shedding during semi-dormancy in summer, which is normal. Avoid overreacting by removing all leaves; retaining some leaves helps with heat dissipation.
