Rose Shocking Blue Standard

• Standard roses are grafted onto tall stems creating tree-like specimens perfect for formal gardens and creating height in landscape design.
• The 'Shocking Blue' variety produces unique purple-blue blooms that are rare in the rose world, making it highly prized by collectors.
• Originally developed through selective breeding, blue roses represent the impossible dream made possible through horticultural innovation.
• These roses typically reach 1.2-1.5 metres tall with a rounded crown, making them ideal focal points in garden beds.

• Water deeply 2-3 times weekly at soil level, increasing frequency during hot Australian summers and reducing in winter.
• Position in full sun location with minimum 6 hours direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and plant health.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost and organic matter, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
• Feed monthly during spring and summer with rose fertiliser, supplementing with organic compost in autumn.
• Prune in July-August removing dead wood, weak growth, and opening centre for air circulation and sunlight penetration.
• Mulch around base with organic material to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from stem.

• Plant in full sun location receiving at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for best flowering and disease resistance. Morning sun is particularly important.
• Water deeply at soil level 2-3 times weekly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
• Feed monthly during growing season with rose-specific fertiliser high in potassium for flower production. Apply organic mulch around base.
• Prune in late winter removing dead wood and opening centre for air circulation. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.

• Aphids cluster on new growth and buds - spray with insecticidal soap or introduce beneficial insects like ladybirds. Check plants weekly during spring growth.
• Black spot appears as dark spots on leaves in humid conditions - ensure good air circulation and water at soil level. Remove affected leaves promptly.
• Powdery mildew creates white coating on leaves - avoid overhead watering and plant in sunny, well-ventilated areas. Apply fungicide if severe.
• Scale insects attach to stems causing yellowing - scrape off manually or apply horticultural oil. Monitor regularly during warmer months.