My Rose Petals Are Falling Off

Planting

• Plant the rose bush in springtime in an area that receives at least six hours of sun a day. The rose bush requires soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. To test the soil, purchase a pH test kit from a garden supply store. Place a soil sample in the kit's test tube and apply the solution. The solution will turn a specific color, which indicates the pH level of the soil. Compare the color of the solution to the kit's color chart. Amend the soil if necessary. When planting the rose bush, dig a hole that is two times bigger than the root ball.

Mulch

• Add 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch such as wood chips, pine needles or leaves around the base of the plant to strengthen it. Leave several inches around the rose's stem free of mulch to prevent fungal infections. Mulch retains the moisture in the soil and minimizes the need for frequent watering. However, mulch breaks down over time. Add new mulch around the rose bush once a year.

Fertilizer

• Select an organic fertilizer. Organic blends provide a greater variety of minerals, amino acids and vitamins than inorganic varieties. Shower the top of the rose bush with some organic fertilizer once a month. If using a liquid soil fertilizer, apply the solution to the soil every other week. Stop applying fertilizer to the roses after the growth season, which ends in mid-August.

Watering

• Water the rose bush adequately. The amount of water depends on your climate, soil and age of the plant. Start by watering the rose bush two to four times per week in the mornings. Give the plant 1 to 2 inches of water. Don't allow water to splash on the rose petals or foliage to prevent the spread of disease. Stick your finger in the soil to check for moisture. If your finger is dry, water the plant.