Dear Stan

I am in the MD of Nameo and have over wintered about 10 tender roses bushes in pots in my garage in front of a west facing window. Some were cut back a bit in the fall, others not. Some have new buds on them and all show signs of life.(some green). Some have aphids quite bad. Have given them a wash down to try to kill off aphids but they are back. Any suggestions on pruning back. How much and when. Fertilizing , with what and when, and the aphids?

Need your help.

Thanks
Anne

Anne - Keeping the roses as you are, is the best method to ensure healthy and productive plants.

Prune them back to half the current size and maintain them in fairly good light and cool temps until uniform growth begins, usually in about three weeks. Water well, and apply a rose water soluble fertilizer.

They probably could be re repotted into a 12 or 15 inch container, if not destined to be planted into the yard or garden. Pick up a Doktor Doom insecticide spray container. Most to the garden and nurseries, plus the box stores will have the product.