In a video titled “Rose Care for Hot Climates”, she revealed the one mistake gardeners must avoid: pruning during a heatwave.
“During the summer, the last thing we want is for that rose to try and grow more,” she said. “It’s already stressed. We just want to keep it alive.”
Angela explained that pruning encourages new growth, which can sap energy from the plant at a time when it’s struggling to cope with heat.
“Normally, we keep our roses deadheaded. But in the summer, if we encourage those new blooms, they’re going to burn up.”
Instead, she recommends snipping spent flowers just below the bloom to remove them without stimulating growth.
“Leaving spent blooms can lead to rose hips, which also takes energy. So instead, I snip off the bloom right below the bud.”
That way, the plant isn’t wasting energy on survival and reproduction at the same time.
Angela also shared other key tips for keeping roses healthy in extreme weather, with mulching near the top of the list.
“A thick layer of mulch is crucial to help your roses survive the summer,” she said.
She suggests two to three inches of compost and wood chips to regulate temperature, keep the soil cool and retain moisture.
Watering deeply and less often is another must. “Frequent shallow watering encourages the roots to stay near the soil surface. Deep roots are what will help the roses withstand that summer heat.”
During a heatwave, though, gardeners should check the soil often. “Roses need water or they will die. You might have to water more frequently.”
Angela also advised feeding the soil with compost rather than relying on fertiliser.
“Once temperatures climb above 100F (around 38C), roses may not even be able to use all the nutrients in the soil. That compost I add with the mulch is going to help feed the soil.”
Finally, she encouraged gardeners not to worry too much if roses start to look tired.
“Don’t expect your roses to look their best during the summer. The leaves are going to look a little bit crispy. Leave them alone. They’re helping to protect the plant.”
Roses, she says, are focused on survival, and they’ll bounce back beautifully in the autumn.