Gardening Guide: Want more flowers in your rose plants? Try these 7 tips for year-round blooms

Sunlight is Key

Roses thrive in sunlight. Ensure your plants get at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In India, morning sunlight is best as it’s less harsh. Lack of sunlight leads to fewer blooms and leggy growth.

Prune Regularly

Regular pruning promotes healthy growth and continuous blooming. Remove dead, diseased, or weak stems. Always prune just above an outward-facing bud. After each flowering cycle, lightly trim faded blooms (deadheading) to trigger fresh buds.

Feed with the Right Fertilizer

Roses are heavy feeders. Use a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every 3–4 weeks during the growing season. In India, you can also supplement with organic compost, cow dung, or banana peels for steady nourishment.

Water Deep, Not Often

Roses dislike soggy soil. Water deeply 2–3 times a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Early morning watering is ideal. In hot Indian summers, increase frequency but avoid overwatering.

Pest Control is Crucial

Aphids, spider mites, and fungal infections are common. Inspect your plants weekly. Use neem oil spray, diluted soap solution, or horticultural oil to keep pests at bay. Good air circulation also helps prevent diseases like black spot or mildew.

Choose the Right Variety

Select rose varieties suited for Indian climates such as Damask, Desi Gulab, or hybrid teas. Local varieties adapt better to heat and monsoons, and bloom more reliably.

Mulch to Retain Moisture

Mulching with dry leaves, sugarcane bagasse, or cocopeat helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool. It also suppresses weeds and adds nutrients over time, boosting flower production.