I doubt there is a more rewarding plant to grow than the old favourite Rose.
The color and perfume of Scented Roses are Divine and in the tropics where I am they flower all year round.
To be successful in growing roses soil preparation is essential, add plenty of compost, Roses love it, if you have a heavy clay soil then you will need to add a lot of Organic material to break up that tight ground.
Roses will not tolerate wet feet so opening up a clay soil is essential. A raised garden is best especially if you are in a wet climate, this lets the excess rain run off and ensures their roots don't sit in water.
Once in the ground add compost and or mulch at least twice a year along with any of the animal manures to feed them, the only chemical fertiliser you may need would be Sulphate of Potash, (which is true of all the flowering shrubs).
The mulch and compost helps to keep the roots cool through summer. Don't plant them to close, up to a metre apart is necessary for the larger varieties, this ensures good air flow to keep the fungal diseases away,
Black Spot will become a problem if they get crowded.
The long and short is if you treat them well you will be rewarded with a mass of blooms and perfume to savour.
Be Happy,
Barry.
