‘Peach Melba’ (climber) ROSE OF THE YEAR 2023

Description

‘Peach Melba’

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Rosa Peach Melba is a captivating hybrid tea rose, renowned for its exquisite peach and pink blossoms. To help you successfully grow and maintain this beautiful rose, this guide provides essential tips on planting and care, ensuring that your Rosa Peach Melba thrives in your garden.

Selecting the Perfect Location
When planting Rosa Peach Melba, choose a location that receives ample sunlight—ideally 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot with morning sun and partial shade during the afternoon is perfect, protecting the delicate blooms from intense heat while promoting healthy growth.

Preparing the Soil
Rosa Peach Melba flourishes in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Before planting, work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance its structure and fertility. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH level, between 6.0 and 7.0, to provide an optimal environment for the roots to absorb nutrients efficiently.

Planting Rosa Peach Melba
For the best results, plant Rosa Peach Melba in either spring or autumn, avoiding periods of extreme heat or frost. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and deep enough so that the graft union (the knobby part where the stem meets the rootstock) sits just below the soil surface. This placement helps protect the graft union from cold weather.

Gently spread out the roots in the hole, fill in with soil, and press down lightly to eliminate air pockets. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and encourage establishment.

Watering and Mulching
Consistent watering is crucial for establishing a healthy Rosa Peach Melba. Water deeply at the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Throughout the growing season, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Applying mulch around the base of Rosa Peach Melba helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, is ideal.

Feeding and Fertilising
To support continuous blooming, Rosa Peach Melba benefits from regular feeding. Use a balanced rose fertiliser or a specialised rose feed high in potassium to encourage abundant flower production. Apply fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins, and again after the first flush of blooms. Avoid fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning Rosa Peach Melba
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of Rosa Peach Melba. In late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges, prune out dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Trim back the remaining canes to about one-third of their length, cutting just above an outward-facing bud. This practice encourages an open structure, promoting air circulation and reducing the risk of disease.

Protecting Against Pests and Diseases
Like many roses, Rosa Peach Melba is susceptible to pests and diseases such as aphids, black spot, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and early intervention are key to keeping your roses healthy. For pest control, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and apply fungicidal treatments if you notice signs of disease. Maintaining good garden hygiene, such as removing fallen leaves and debris, also helps prevent the spread of diseases.

Winter Care for Rosa Peach Melba
To protect Rosa Peach Melba during colder months, apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots. In areas prone to severe frost, additional protection, such as wrapping the plant in horticultural fleece, can help prevent winter damage. Refrain from pruning in late autumn, as this can encourage new growth vulnerable to frost.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of Rosa Peach Melba in your garden for many seasons to come. This rose variety, with its stunning blooms and elegant appearance, is sure to be a standout addition to any garden space.

RHS Details

See more Roses from Proctors