How to Fertilize Miniature Roses

Choose an appropriate fertilizer for roses like a 9-18-9 granular fertilizer, an 18-24-16 water-soluble fertilizer or a 5-10-5 general use fertilizer. The numbers indicate the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the product.

Measure fertilizer according to manufacturer's instructions. Dissolve water-soluble fertilizer in water measured according to the label's directions.

Apply fertilizer to the soil. Sprinkle granules on the soil in a ring around the miniature rose bush, leaving a couple of inches between the fertilizer and the plant, or water plants with the fertilizer-water solution. Work dry fertilizer into the top 4 inches of soil and moisten the soil with water.

Re-apply fertilizer once a month while the miniature roses are blooming. To keep nutrients more steadily available, apply half the recommended amount twice a month instead.