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How to improve rose bush growth?

lbperera
Finding My Feet

How to improve rose bush growth?

Hi,

I have got a standard rose. I don't' believe it is performing to its best. Please see the new growth with somewhat curling with non uniform color, i.e., uneven green in red. What could be causing this? Is it a soil issue, fertilizing or pests. No pests are to be see on the plant. 

Similar issues can be seen in another bush nearby. What can I do to resolve the issue. Any tipis of clues from anyone who had similar issues is much appreciated. Thank you. 

it has been 5 years since we built and moved to this place. So far, I haven't got any rose to perform long at this place while I had 30+ bushes in my previous place with no issues. I have attached photos to show my current issues and a St. john Paul the II push with hundreds of blooms that I had in my previous place. I am clueless what is happening here.  

 

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MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: New Growth issues with rose bush

Hi @lbperera,

 

The crimson colour you’re seeing on the new growth of your rose bushes is actually quite normal. Many rose varieties produce reddish or crimson foliage when the new shoots first emerge, especially in spring. This vibrant red colour is part of the plant's natural growth process and usually fades to a more uniform green as the leaves mature and harden off. So, the uneven colour you’re noticing—where some areas are red, and others are green—isn’t a sign of a problem but rather the typical transition that happens as new growth develops.

 

As for the curling of the leaves, this is also quite common in new growth, particularly as the leaves unfold from the bud. When roses put out fresh shoots, the leaves often start curling or rolling up tightly. As they grow and mature, they will gradually open up and flatten out. This is a natural process and shouldn’t be a cause for concern unless the leaves stay curled for a long time, become discoloured, or show other signs of distress. If the curling is happening as the leaves are unfolding, it’s likely nothing to worry about. If you’re seeing persistent issues beyond the normal growth cycle, it could be worth considering factors like water stress or nutrient imbalances, but otherwise, it sounds like your roses are just going through their typical growth stage.

 

I'd monitor that new growth for a few weeks. If the leaves transition to green and unfold entirely, there's nothing to worry about. If you haven't fertilised recently, I'd certainly advise applying a complete slow-release fertiliser such as Scotts Osmocote 500g Roses, Gardenias, Azaleas And Camellias Controlled Release Fertiliser.

 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Mitchell

 

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