Rose cultivation, including soil, temperature, varieties, and disease control care

Roses are one of the most cherished and significant flowers in the world, used for a variety of occasions. They come in a wide range of colors, from white to red, and even multicolored varieties. Though their origin is primarily from Asia, many species are also found in Europe, America, and Africa. Rose petals are used to make various medicines, which are beneficial in treating stress and skin ailments. Roses are also a key ingredient in the perfume industry. In India, the major rose-producing states are Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. Cultivating roses in a greenhouse can significantly enhance the quality of the flowers.

Ideal Soil, Temperature, and Climate for Rose Cultivation:

Roses thrive best in sandy loam soil rich in organic matter with good drainage. The ideal pH level for the soil should be between 6 and 7.5. For optimal growth, the day temperature should be between 25 to 30°C, while the night temperature should range from 15 to 17°C. Roses are best cultivated in areas with minimal rainfall, as excessive moisture can hinder commercial rose production. Extremely hot or cold climates are not suitable for large-scale rose farming. Planting should be done during cooler weather. In a greenhouse, maintaining around 70% humidity ensures better plant growth, and mist irrigation is recommended for rose plants in such environments.

Popular Varieties of Roses:

1. Eglanteria: Known for its fragrant, single-petaled flowers.
2. Moyesii: A Chinese variety that produces red roses.
3. Multiflora: Originating from Asia, this variety is famous for its highly fragrant white petals.
4. Alba: Produces flowers ranging from light pink to white.
5. Centifolia: Also known as the cabbage rose, its full, round flowers come in shades of white to pink.
6. Hybrid Perpetual: Large, fragrant flowers that range from pink to red.
7. Moss: This variety grows on various types of shrubs and comes in a wide range of colors.
8. Floribunda: A shrub variety with small flowers and stems, producing blooms in clusters.
9. Climbing Rose: These roses have long branches that require support, like walls or trellises. They require minimal pruning and produce large flowers.
10. Grandiflora: A tall variety, growing up to 2-3 feet, developed by combining Hybrid Teas and Floribundas. The flowers are larger and grow in clusters.
11. Other popular varieties include Rajhans, Jawahar, Ganga White, Mriganalini Pink, Montezuma, Charles Mallerin Dark Red, and climbing roses such as Delhi White and Pearl.

How to Grow Roses:

To prepare the soil, till and loosen it, and prepare beds 4-6 weeks before planting. For bed preparation, mix 2 tons of manure and 2 kg of superphosphate into the soil. Flatten the beds, dig 30 cm wide and 30 cm deep holes at a 75 cm distance for planting. Roses can be planted directly or as seedlings. Planting in raised beds yields better profits.
In northern India, mid-October is the best time for planting. After transplanting, place the plants in a shaded area. If there is excessive sunlight, water the plants regularly. Roses planted later in the afternoon tend to grow better.

Propagation of Roses:

Roses are propagated through cuttings and budding. In northern India, December to February is the ideal time for T-budding. Pruning is done in the second and subsequent years. In northern India, rose bushes are pruned in the second or third week of October. Remove branches that crowd the bush and do not prune climbing roses. After pruning, apply 7-8 kg of well-decomposed cow manure per plant and mix it thoroughly into the soil.

Fertilization for Rose Cultivation:

At the time of bed preparation, add 2 tons of manure and 2 kg of superphosphate to the soil. Every three months, apply 10 kg of manure, along with 8 grams of nitrogen, 8 grams of phosphorus, and 16 grams of potash per plant. Apply fertilizers immediately after pruning. For better yield, spray GA3 @ 200 ppm (2 grams per liter) one month after pruning. To enhance the plant’s stress tolerance, use 100 grams of root stimulant (Rally Gold/Rhizome) + 60 ml of Tipol, dissolved in 100 liters of water, and irrigate the field in the evening.

Irrigation for Rose Plants: Plant rose bushes in such a way that they can grow effectively. Irrigation should be done based on soil type and climate. Modern irrigation techniques like drip irrigation are beneficial for rose cultivation. Avoid sprinkler irrigation, as it increases the risk of diseases in the leaves.

Plant Care for Roses:

1. Caterpillars: If caterpillar infestation is observed, spray Methomyl with a sticker at the rate of 1 ml per liter of water for prevention.
2. Thrips, Aphids, and Leafhoppers: If these pests appear, spray 2 ml of Methyl Demeton 25 EC per liter of water, or apply 5 grams of Carbofuran 3G per plant.
3. Branch Wilting: This is a common disease, and if not controlled effectively, it can cause severe damage. If an infestation occurs, spray a mixture of 2 grams of Chlorothalonil and 0.5 ml of Tipol per liter of water using a power sprayer.

Harvesting the Rose Crop: A profitable yield can be expected from the second year of rose cultivation. Roses should be harvested when the flower color is fully developed, and one or two petals have started to open (but not fully). Use a sharp knife to cut the flowers. For larger blooms intended for export markets, the stem length should be 60-90 cm, while for smaller flowers, the stem length should be 40-50 cm. Harvesting should be done either early in the morning or late in the afternoon for best results.