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It's better to give the rose bushes a large amount of water less often, than a small amount of water more often. For example: giving a full watering can of water once a week rather than a quarter can every other day. This is because it's better for the plant to develop deep roots in quest of water and it's also better if the soil isn't permanently waterlogged. This is an important consideration, especially on clay soils or other poor-draining soils where waterlogging is more likely. Take a large watering can - if possible, it's best to use a watering can 'rose', which is the showerhead-style spout that stops the water coming out in a single stream. If you use a single spout can it can erode the soil around the roots. Exposure will eventually damage the roots. Roses will always prefer rainwater but this isn't essential. If you are using a garden hose, avoid a high-pressure jet as this can also erode the soil from the roots. Alternatively, you could set up an irrigation system - but be careful to monitor it to make sure it is watering the roses the right amount and is working properly. Water the ground at the base of the plant fairly slowly, pausing for it to soak in. Your aim is to wet the soil to a depth of about 18 inches (45.7cm). After very dry spells the earth can bake hard and it can take longer for it to absorb water. Be patient! It's usually best to avoid watering your rose bushes during the heat of the day. Try to get in the habit of watering them first thing in the morning before the sun gets too high. This lets foliage dry off by the time the cooler evening air gets to them. If a rose has wet foliage it can be more at risk of mildew and blackspot. This isn't a problem if you are using an irrigation system placed on the soil surface as the foliage won't be getting wet. Even if you have an irrigation system in place, some gardeners recommend occasional watering from above using a hose or can, in order to dislodge any spider mites before they become a problem. A thick layer of mulch applied around roses will really help to keep the moisture in the soil and reduce the need for watering as often. Well-rotted horse manure works well for roses apply after feeding them, ideally in late spring, and on damp earth. Apply a 3 inch (7.6cm) depth around the rose when the ground isn't cold or frozen. Every year, remove the spent mulch and replace it with a fresh layer. The start of the growing season (spring) is a good time to feed your roses and replace the mulch. You can also help to reduce watering by incorporating a water-retaining material at planting time. These are available from garden stores and are designed to be mixed in with the soil or compost when planting. Additionally, some varieties of rose are more drought-tolerant, or will even tolerate shade, so consider choosing one of these varieties to reduce water requirements. Container grown roses tend to dry out a bit faster than ground planted ones, so these will need watering more. In hot conditions, be prepared to water container-grown roses every day. You can help reduce water requirements by mulching. Inorganic mulches such as pebbles or gravel can work well in containers and look attractive. Also consider using a watering device such as a spike designed to water potted plants gradually over time. These can be purchased from garden stores, or make your own using an old plastic bottle using an online tutorial. If your roses start to wilt and get droopy, they probably need watering. Over the long term the leaves will dry up and wither and the flowers will bloom less and possibly even die. Smaller blooms and less of them is a sign a rose is stressed, probably due to lack of water. Overwatering can cause root rot, especially in poor-draining soils. Signs to watch out for include yellow leaves and leaf drop, and new shoots wilting and dying away. Take care that container-planted roses never sit in water. Avoid putting containers in trays, bowls or saucers. Too much water can also make the foliage chlorotic (yellowish and mottled).
Give the rose bushes a lot of water, less frequently. Use the right kind of watering can. Water the soil to a depth of 18 inches (45.7cm). Water your roses first thing in the morning. Apply a thick layer of mulch to keep moisture in the soil. Reduce watering by incorporating a water-retaining material into the soil. Know that container-grown roses require more water. Water your roses immediately if they start to look droopy. Don't overwater roses, as this causes root rot.