AUTUMN

March

Review plant performance, and plan to replace any unsatisfactory varieties. 
Do not dead head beyond now - let plants set hips.

April

Prepare ground for new roses, digging in compost and well potted manure.
A great time to browse through catalogues and order new varieties.
Try and select new varieties that have been specially bred for disease tolerance.

May

If replacing old roses, replacing the soil can be beneficial, but not essential. Adding rose fertilizer and compost is also beneficial.

WINTER

June

Check tools, sharpen and buy now if required.
Spray with Copper Oxychloride.
Plant new varieties, staking if necessary.
Begin pruning established plants.
Apply a light dressing of lime every 2^nd year.
Move any bushes you want to relocate, trimming roots and top growth. 

July

Best month to prune.
If dry and frosty, water newly planted roses.
Check ties and stakes on existing plants.
Apply Sulphate of Potash to help with disease resistance.
Apply Lime Sulphur.
Apply mulches of organic matter for weed control and feeding.

August

Complete pruning.
Feed towards end of month.
Ensure climbers and ramblers are securely tied to supports.
Keep new plants well watered.

SPRING

Once roses are well established, water them occasionally. Spray every two to three weeks as required, for the utmost performance. Check which sprays you can apply together, or need to be separate. Spray in the cooler part of the day. Spray up and down the plant. You can use liquid fertilizers with your spray to give them a boost. Many older varieties need more attention.

Most of the newer varieties released in recent years (last 10 years) are more disease tolerant, and some people elect for a spray free policy. Feed roses again mid to late November.

SUMMER

To promote a second and third flush of flowers, dead head the spent flowers over summer. Prune back by about 20cm. Feed roses again in February for their final autumn flush. Water occasionally over summer. If roses are potted, water regularly, and have a saucer under your pot.

For a special event, or to time a flush of flowering, cut back the roses 8 - 9 weeks prior to the required date. Fertilize and water well into the ground, avoid overhead sprinklers.

Be careful spraying your lawn for weeds near your roses. Avoid using Roundup near your roses, use Buster. Roses are very forgiving and will grow and flower with as much or little care you wish to give them. Enjoy!