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Q: What do I spray on my roses to keep them safe from diseases?
Hardiness Zone: 7b
Faith from Starkville, MS
A: Faith,
There are several things you can do to prevent rose diseases. First of all, start with disease resistant plants. Give them full sun, well drained, nutrient-rich soil and maintain proper air circulation around the plants with proper pruning. Second, use soaker hoses or water your roses from the bottom to avoid getting the plant wet when you're watering it. Third, if you notice insects or damaged leaves remove them quickly to keep problems from spreading. Roses are highly susceptible to mold and fungal diseases, so keep the beds around plants free from fallen leaves and debris where fungi is likely to reside. Roses also appreciate the tannic acid in tea bags and benefit from the potassium from banana peels. To prepare them for winter, stop fertilizing them mid-summer and stop deadheading three to five weeks before the first expected frost in your area. Keep watering as usually throughout the fall.
Good Luck!
Ellen
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