How to Identify and Care for an Abigaile Rose
- 1). Identify the Abigaile Rose by its clusters of small double flowers. They are red or a silvery-pink and are tipped with carmine. The blooms are very fragrant and flashy and may have single or double petals. Each bloom may have from 5 up to 30 petals. The foliage is a medium, dark green leaf that is oval in shape and has finely toothed edges. This is an edible shrub and it grows up to 3 feet high and 3 feet wide. The Abigaile Rose blooms from early spring to late summer.
- 2). Plant the Abigaile Rose in a sandy loam to some clay mixture with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. Dig a hole that is at least twice the size of the root ball. It should be deep enough so the plant is at the same level it was in the container. Separate the roots and place it in the center of the hole. If the soil is the correct pH, use the soil from the hole. If not, use amended soil to fill in.
- 3). Build a water well around the shrub to encourage water to drain to the outside of the plant. This encourages the roots to spread out. A water well is simply a ring of soil around the circumference of the hole dug to plant the rose. Water the Abigaile Rose deeply – it should get at least an inch of water once a week.
- 4). Fertilize the Abigaile Rose with a phosphorus fertilizer when it is young. Phosphorus encourages root growth. Once the plant is established, use a fertilizer designed for roses. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package, as each brand of fertilizer has its own strengths and chemical compositions.
- 5). Prune the Abigaile Rose in the spring by removing old, dead or damaged wood. This helps increase air flow to the lower branches. It also helps keep pests at bay and allows new growth, which increases flower production. Prune throughout the year as needed. Cut back flowered stems, allowing new shoots – they should be cut back by half.
- 6). Prevent pests and disease by keeping weeds down, removing infected branches or plants and using proper pesticides. If you plan on eating the blossoms, you will need to find an organic pesticide. Introduce ladybugs and lacewings to your garden to help control pests.
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