Watering, fertilizing, cutting and more

How are moss roses properly watered?

You should water moss roses extensively two to three times a week in summer. The moss rose needs less moisture in spring and autumn.

Avoid wetting the leaves when watering, as damp leaves quickly remove mildew be infested. Try not to use one Garden sprinklerwatering the plants from above.

The best time to water is in the morning.

How often and when do you have to fertilize?

In order for a moss rose to bloom abundantly, it needs a comparatively large amount of nutrients. It is fertilized three times a year.

• Mid-March: compost
• End of May: rose fertilizer
• End of July: rose fertilizer

From the end of July you are no longer allowed to use moss roses fertilize. The new shoots stimulated by this do not harden properly before winter and die in frost.

How are moss roses properly cut?

Moss roses that bloom only once

cut They only go back every two to three years, and generally in the spring. They bloom on the old wood and must therefore not be shortened or thinned too much.

In the case of varieties that bloom twice, pruning is also carried out annually in spring.

Always remove dead inflorescences immediately to prevent rose hips from forming. By pruning, you ensure a second flowering period.

What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?

Powdery mildew occurs especially when the moss rose is very damp and the leaves remain wet for a long time. Cut affected shoots and spray the plant with diluted whole milk.

There are occasional aphids that you should fight immediately.

How do you prepare a moss rose for winter?

Moss roses are only partially hardy. Therefore, pile up the soil well around the plant. Protect the upper parts of the moss rose with burlap, jute or special rose fleece.