Now is the time to mulch your rose plants, before the warmer weather kicks in. Mulching is very important as it provides a protective layer on your garden bed. By applying a thick layer, you are helping the rose (and other plants) to retain as much moisture as possible, to stabilise soil temperature and reduce weeds, and to provide important nutrients for the plant. Mulches come in various forms, but we suggest using one with a coarse characteristic such as lucerne, legume mulch (i.e.: pea and bean), cereal mulch (i.e.: wheat and barley), or a bark based organic mulch. Finer mulches such as sawdust or woodchips can have a drying effect and can compact together which is often detrimental to the plants. Don’t use any fresh mulch like loan clippings or fresh bark. When applying mulch allow at least a 10cm thickness around each plant, keeping a space immediately next to the base of the plant so that water can access the root system. We recommend a solid soaking prior to laying the mulch followed by a good watering afterwards to bed it down. Remember if you are wanting to add a slow-release chemical fertiliser it should only be applied to dry plants as it can cause burning. We prefer organic mulch as opposed to a synthetic matting or weed suppressant because you create an ideal environment for earth worms. They naturally aerate the soil and their castings are the best form of natural fertiliser for your soil.
To know more about the beneficials that worms can bring to your soil and to your roses, listen to Brian's advice clicking the button below - So many interesting information about the importance of mulching and having a healthy and active worms' population in your soil!
| 
