This recipe was adapted from the one on Mark Whitelaw's website. The original used alfalfa meal in the mix, but, since I can't find that anymore, I've altered the program so that there are semi-annual applications of S/F Mix and 3-4 applicationss of alfalfa pellets. The pellets I use are intended as horse feed.

Spring: When roses are first budding out, I prune and apply 1/2 cup each of alfalfa pellets and S/F Mix per foot of bush height.

S/F Mix

• 2 parts cottonseed meal
• 2 parts ground rock or colloidal phosphate (not super phosphate)
• 2 parts bone meal
• 1 part blood meal
• 1 part Epsom salt
• for new roses, add 1 part greensand

  Since I have over 100 roses, I use one bag for each "part." This makes enough mix for all my roses, with a little left for new roses, or roses that need a boost.

  Fall: apply no later than 8 weeks before the first expected frost. Many knowledgeable rosarians have theorized that roses suffer less damage in winter when they are not fertilzed near the end of the growing season. Many skip fall feeding all together. Here in Virginia, I give the roses the last feeding in early August.

  Between the spring and fall feedings, I either sprinkle on alfalfa pellets once or twice, use an alfalfa tea (when I feel like enduring the mess, effort and smell, which isn't often), or water with fish emulsion.