Rose Black Forest Bush

• Originally bred for its exceptional dark colouration, this rose variety produces blooms that appear almost black in certain lighting conditions.
• Bush form typically reaches 1.2-1.5 metres in height and width, making it perfect for medium-sized garden spaces and container growing.
• Repeat flowering throughout the growing season provides continuous colour and fragrance from spring through to late autumn.
• Highly sought after by collectors and garden designers for its dramatic visual impact and unique colour palette.
• Adapts well to Australian climate conditions and shows good heat tolerance once established in the garden.

• Water deeply 2-3 times weekly at soil level during growing season, reducing frequency in winter months.
• Position in full sun with minimum 6 hours direct sunlight daily for best flowering and plant health.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and aged manure, maintaining pH between 6.0-7.0.
• Feed monthly from spring to autumn with rose fertiliser, supplementing with Epsom salts mid-season.
• Prune in late July-August removing dead wood and shaping, deadhead spent blooms regularly.
• Mulch heavily around base with organic matter, keeping mulch away from stem to prevent collar rot.

• Plant in full sun location receiving at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for best flower production and disease resistance.
• Water deeply 2-3 times weekly during growing season, reducing frequency in winter - always water at soil level to prevent fungal issues.
• Apply thick mulch around base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature throughout Australian seasons.
• Prune in late winter removing dead, diseased, and weak growth to encourage strong new shoots and abundant blooms.
• Feed monthly during growing season with rose-specific fertiliser and supplement with compost or well-aged manure.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth and buds - spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Check regularly during spring growth spurts.
• Black spot fungal disease appears as dark spots on leaves - improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicidal spray if needed.
• Thrips damage petals causing silvery streaks and brown edges - use blue sticky traps and maintain good garden hygiene.
• Overwatering leads to root rot and yellowing leaves - ensure well-draining soil and water at soil level rather than on foliage.