Water and Roses

Roses need almost as much water as people do to stay healthy — getting the watering routine right is one of the biggest factors in whether a rose bed thrives.

How Much and How Often

Roses need more water in hot weather than cold, since heat dries the soil faster and makes them "thirstier." Rain isn't always enough on its own, depending on your region, so keep an eye on the bed even on rainy days. Water once a week when the plants are fully established, stepping up to twice weekly during the hottest months. Make sure the area around the roots is thoroughly drenched — aim for moisture reaching about 45 centimeters deep — rather than a light surface watering.

Watering Without Inviting Disease

Avoid watering the petals or canes directly — wet foliage is a common route to fungal disease in roses. Watering in the morning helps dew dry off the leaves before it can linger. Mulch is a useful tool here too: it keeps the soil moist without creating the excess surface moisture that invites fungal problems in the first place.