Fighting Temeraire Rose Rosa Fighting Temeraire = 'Austrava' (PBR) (S)

Water

The David Austin rose 'Fighting Temeraire' requires a deep watering once a week, and possibly more frequently during particularly hot and dry periods. It's crucial to avoid shallow sprinklings and instead allow water to penetrate several inches into the soil to encourage deep root growth. During the growing season, ensure the plant receives about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week. Adjust watering based on rainfall, and during peak summer heat, additional water may be needed to maintain soil moisture, but always beware of overwatering which can lead to root rot.

Light

The David Austin rose 'Fighting Temeraire' thrives in full sunlight, which implies at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. The best spot would be an area that receives morning sun, as it helps dry the dew off the leaves and prevent fungal diseases. An open area without shade from trees or buildings is ideal to ensure the plant gets ample light for robust growth and bloom production.

Temperature

David Austin roses like 'Fighting Temeraire' do best in temperate conditions and can typically handle fluctuations between 35°F and 90°F. The ideal temperature range for thriving growth is between 65°F and 75°F. Although roses can withstand colder winter temperatures, prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing may require protective measures such as mulching around the base.

Pruning

Prune the David Austin rose 'Fighting Temeraire' primarily to shape the plant, remove deadwood, and promote healthy growth and air circulation. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts, typically around late February to April. Remove any thin, weak canes and trim the remaining canes by about one-third to one-half of their length. Cut just above a bud that is facing outwards to encourage the rose to grow outwards rather than inwards.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For the best soil mix for the Shrub Rose, use a well-draining mix with organic matter, such as compost and aged manure. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Mulch to retain moisture and protect roots.

Repotting

Shrub Roses like Rosa Fighting Temeraire don't typically require repotting as they are outdoor plants. Instead, they are planted in garden beds where they can spread their roots.

Humidity & Misting

Shrub Roses do not have specific humidity requirements; they can thrive in average outdoor conditions. Ambient humidity typically found in gardens is sufficient.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, prune regularly, avoid dry heat sources.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny spot, enrich soil, ensure good air flow.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Rosa 'Austrava', commonly known as Fighting Temeraire rose, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, or more commonly through vegetative propagation techniques such as cuttings or grafting. Once rooting is established, the plant enters a vegetative growth phase, developing stems, leaves, and thorns as a shrub. As it matures, typically within a couple of years, it enters the flowering stage, wherein buds form and then bloom into its notable large, apricot-orange flowers during the growing season, often repeating this process multiple times if deadheaded. After pollination, the flowers may produce hips that contain seeds, although many modern roses are bred for sterility to enhance blooming. The plant will enter a dormant period in colder climates during the winter months, where it conserves energy and rests. In spring, the cycle renews as the rose bush breaks dormancy, sending out new shoots and leaves to start the growth cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: Rosa 'Fighting Temeraire', also known as Ausset, is best propagated through the method of semi-hardwood cuttings. This is a popular technique that takes advantage of the plant's mature, yet still pliable stems. The semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken from the rose bush in late summer to fall, when the blooms have faded and new growth has started to harden. Cuttings of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long that contain several sets of leaves are ideal. The lower leaves should be removed, and the base of the cutting can be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The pot with the cutting should be placed in a warm, humid environment but not in direct sunlight, and the soil should be kept consistently moist. With proper care, roots will begin to form in a few weeks, and the new Rosa 'Fighting Temeraire' plants can eventually be transplanted outdoors.