Rose Kardinal Bush

• Named for its distinctive cardinal-red blooms that maintain their vibrant colour even in intense Australian heat. The deep red petals have a velvety texture and classic rose form.
• Originally developed for hot climate performance, making it exceptionally well-suited to Australian conditions. Tolerates both heat waves and drought periods better than many traditional rose varieties.
• Produces strongly fragrant flowers with the classic old-rose scent that intensifies in warm weather. Blooms repeatedly from spring through autumn with proper care.
• Grows as a compact bush reaching 1-1.5 metres, making it ideal for smaller gardens and container growing. Dense foliage provides good coverage and disease resistance.

• Water deeply 2-3 times weekly at soil level during growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Check soil moisture 5cm down before watering.
• Position in full sun location receiving minimum 6 hours direct sunlight daily. Morning sun exposure helps prevent fungal diseases.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and aged cow manure. pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0).
• Feed monthly from September to April with rose-specific fertiliser containing potassium for strong blooms. Supplement with Epsom salts quarterly.
• Prune in July-August removing dead, diseased, and crossing branches. Cut back by one-third to encourage vigorous new growth.
• Mulch with organic matter maintaining 10cm from stem base. This conserves moisture and suppresses weeds in Australian conditions.
• Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering throughout the growing season.

• Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily for optimal flowering and disease resistance. Morning sun is particularly important for drying dew from leaves.
• Water deeply at soil level 2-3 times weekly during growing season, reducing in winter. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and aged manure. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Prune in late winter to remove dead wood and encourage new growth. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering.
• Feed monthly during growing season with rose-specific fertiliser high in potassium for strong blooms.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth and buds - spray with horticultural oil or introduce beneficial insects like ladybirds. Regular inspection helps catch infestations early.
• Black spot appears as dark spots on leaves in humid conditions - ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves promptly.
• Thrips cause silvery streaks on petals and leaves - use blue sticky traps and beneficial predatory mites. Severe infestations may require organic insecticidal soap.
• Root rot occurs from overwatering or poor drainage - ensure well-draining soil and water only when top soil feels dry. Yellow leaves and wilting are early warning signs.