Roses trimmed, watered and fed in February should now be producing vigorous flowering canes. Begin Black Spot prevention spraying now, and add a high phosphorus foliar feed such as Hi-K* as a supplement. Water on cloudy days to reduce foliage burn. Those who have not trimmed will observe their roses looking sad, and "standing still" in the hot, dry conditions. These people will be wise to clean up the plants, because when substantial rain comes, the plants will burst into life, and if we want good blooms by early May, we can be so satisfied if the plants are able to produce canes from substantial wood.

For those unsure about Black Spot prevention, there is no cure when one sees the yellow blotches containing a dark patch appear on foliage. The method of control is to be regular with Triforine* at four weekly intervals, but we must be regular, or Black Spot will appear. Keep plants well watered and well fed. Overhead watering in the morning will assist by washing off foliage, spores that might have settled on dewy leaves overnight. In confined areas with poor air circulation, four week intervals may be too long, and Trioforine* is claimed to prevent Rust. In that case, be sure to spray under the foliage.

* Registered product name.