What Can Stop Food Absorption for Roses?

Water

• Excessively dry soil damages roses in a number of ways, including the prevention of food absorption. Drought conditions dry out the soil, stopping the rose from taking in water, which is a carrier of food to the rose. On the other hand, soil that has excess water also stops food from getting to the rose plant. Standing water drowns the roots of the rose, cutting off their oxygen and keeping them from transporting food and water to the rest of the plant.

Soil pH

• The pH of the soil plays a role in how easy it is for roses to get food. Soil pH is a measurement of the chemical levels in the soil and how acidic or alkaline the soil is; unbalanced soils make it difficult for roses to take in nutrients. Roses prefer a soil with a pH of around 6 to 6.5, which is slightly acidic. High-acid or high-alkaline contents in the soil prevent nutrient intake. Measure the pH of the soil annually and add fertilizer that balances the pH if necessary.

Compacted Soil

• Soil that is too compact and dense prevents roses from growing and taking in nutrients. Dense soil makes it more difficult for roots to take in water and nutrients by applying pressure to the roots. Breaking up dense soil and adding a looser topsoil to the rose's growing area increases its ability to absorb food and fertilizer. Use a trowel or shovel to gently break up dense soil without damaging the rose plant's root system.

Root Rot

• Root rot is a fungal disease related to excess moisture and nitrogen in the soil. Wet soils allow the fungus to grow, and too much rose food or fertilizer feeds the fungus. Root rot attacks the root system of the rose plant and stops it from taking in nutrients and fertilizer, leading to weak or limited blossom production, stunted growth and dead or yellow leaves. Manage the soil and apply a fungicide spray to control root rot.