It’s September 2nd, 2025, and the garden is putting on a show! You know how sometimes, after a long summer of growth, a plant just decides to go all out? That’s exactly what my roses did today. It’s like they knew I was coming out to check on things, and decided to present their absolute best.
This year, my ‘Peace’ roses are absolutely stunning. The blooms are a perfect blend of creamy yellow and blush pink, and the scent is just heavenly. It’s a classic for a reason! And my ‘Queen Elizabeth’ roses, usually more reserved, have exploded with those tall, elegant pink blooms. They’re reaching for the sky, and honestly, they look magnificent.
I’ve learned a lot about roses over the years. The key for me has been consistent care. Early spring is crucial for pruning. I usually wait until the last frost has passed and then go in with clean, sharp secateurs to remove any dead or damaged wood. This encourages strong new growth.
Watering is another big one. Roses love consistent moisture, but they don’t like wet feet. I make sure to water deeply at the base of the plant, especially during dry spells. Morning watering is best, as it allows the foliage to dry off during the day, which helps prevent fungal diseases.
Feeding them is also important. I usually give them a good dose of balanced rose fertilizer in the spring after pruning, and then again in mid-summer. But, I’m careful not to overdo it, as that can sometimes lead to more leaves than flowers.
As for varieties, it really depends on your climate. Here in the Suburban Midwest, we get cold winters and hot summers. Varieties like the Knock Out roses are fantastic because they’re disease-resistant and bloom continuously. For something a bit more classic, the hybrid teas like ‘Peace’ or ‘Queen Elizabeth’ are beautiful, but they do require a bit more attention to thrive.
Seeing them bloom like this makes all the effort worthwhile. It’s a reminder of the simple joys that gardening brings. There’s something incredibly grounding about tending to these plants and then being rewarded with such incredible beauty. It’s moments like these that make me appreciate my little piece of nature.
What’s blooming in your garden today? I’d love to hear about it!