How to Care for Tea Roses

The teas roses in today's gardens are hybrids that originated from the combination in 1867 of the Perpetual rose and the original Tea Rose. This blend created the multiple varieties of hybrid tea roses that gardeners like because they are relatively easy to grow. Cherished for their long stems and large, fragrant flowers, many tea roses have been developed thorn-less, giving the tea rose more popularity for home gardens.

Mulch, organic or bark

Fertilizer, balanced blend or rose-specific

Pruning shears

Plant your tea rose where it will receive at least six hours of sun a day and in soil that drains well. Locations that receive early morning sun are preferred because the sun will quickly dry the dew off of the leaves, preventing the potential for fungus diseases.

Water regularly. Deep watering is preferred, usually weekly. Your tea rose loves water, but not standing in it, so avoid creating a soggy soil environment, which will also promote disease. If you notice the soil dry and cracking during heat spells, water more frequently.

Put a deep layer of mulch, either organic or bark, around your tea rose bush. This will keep down weeds, which roses do not like, keep the roots cooler and save on water.

Fertilize your tea rose with an equal balanced or rose-specific fertilizer three times a year for bigger blooms and healthier bushes. The first application should be done in the spring after pruning, the second during the first blooming time, and the last in mid to late July. Follow the directions on the label for best results. (See Resources)

Prune your tea rose when they are still dormant in early spring, usually February, but a little later in cold regions. Prune off any dead or damaged branches, but be careful not to damage any new sprouts starting to grow. Cut back the healthy branches to where you can see new growth because that is where the blossoms will form.