Our Fabulous 4 Stop Feeding Program for Roses

1. In February, March, or April, apply 1 cup of superphosphate to each rose in the garden. You may substitute 3/8 to 1/2 cup of triple superphosphate if you have it. Superphosphate works better than bone meal because it breaks down faster, is stronger, and is more economical per application. Superphosphate builds stronger root systems and really improves your rose's ability to flower repeatedly all summer long. Apply superphosphate once a year.
2. Apply 1 cup of alfalfa meal or 2 cups of alfalfa pellets to each rose in March or April. Some rosarians will repeat this application in June. Alfalfa releases nitrogen slowly and, more importantly, releases an enzyme that dramatically increases your rose's feeder system...Thus, you can look at alfalfa pellets as a catalyst that will enhance your entire fertilizing effort!
3. Starting in April as the soil begins to warm, I apply a 16-16-16 granular fertilizer. I use 1/2 cup per rose and reapply every 4 to 6 weeks. Your last application should be in August. This step is the core of your feeding program...
4. Apply Epsom salts (magnesium sulphate) to your roses to stimulate new, larger canes and to enhance flower color. We recommend using 3/8 to 1/2 cup per rose in May or June. When coupled with a complete feeding program, I find that magnesium sulphate is a good way to begin rejuvenating older, tired roses.