Rose Mr Lincoln Bush

• Developed in the 1960s and named after President Abraham Lincoln, this rose has become one of the most recognisable red roses worldwide. It remains extremely popular among Australian rose enthusiasts for its reliability and classic beauty.
• Produces large, fully double blooms up to 15cm across with velvety deep red petals that hold their colour well in heat. The flowers have perfect hybrid tea form with high centres and excellent cut flower qualities.
• Vigorous upright bush reaching 1.2-1.5 metres tall with strong disease resistance and excellent heat tolerance. The dark green glossy foliage provides perfect contrast to the dramatic red blooms.
• Intensely fragrant with classic old rose scent that's particularly strong in morning and evening. This fragrance makes it perfect for planting near outdoor entertaining areas or bedroom windows.

• Water 2-3 times weekly during growing season, providing deep soaking at soil level while avoiding wet foliage. Reduce watering frequency in winter but don't allow complete drying.
• Position in full sun location with minimum 6 hours direct sunlight daily and good air circulation. Protection from strong afternoon winds helps prevent damage.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and aged manure, maintaining slightly acidic to neutral pH. Heavy clay soils need organic matter added for drainage.
• Feed monthly spring through autumn with rose fertiliser, supplementing with liquid seaweed fertiliser fortnightly. Apply slow-release granules in early spring.
• Prune annually in late winter removing dead wood and shaping plant, cutting back healthy canes by one-third. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage repeat flowering.
• Maintain 5-7cm organic mulch layer around root zone, keeping material away from stem base. Renew mulch seasonally as it breaks down.

• Plant in full sun location receiving at least 6 hours direct sunlight 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, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
• Apply thick organic mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from stem base to prevent collar rot.
• Feed monthly during growing season with rose-specific fertiliser high in potassium. Supplement with compost or well-aged manure in winter.
• Prune in late winter removing dead, diseased and crossing branches. Cut back remaining canes by one-third to encourage vigorous new growth.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth and buds, causing distorted leaves and reduced flowering. Spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Regular inspection helps catch infestations early.
• Black spot appears as dark circular spots on leaves, eventually causing yellowing and leaf drop. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicide if severe.
• Powdery mildew creates white powdery coating on leaves during humid conditions. Water at soil level and thin overcrowded growth. Remove affected foliage promptly.
• Scale insects attach to stems causing yellowing and weakening. Scrape off manually or apply horticultural oil. Monitor regularly during warmer months.