Pat Austin Rose Rosa Pat Austin = 'Ausmum' (PBR) (S)

Water

The Pat Austin rose requires consistent moisture to maintain its health, especially during its flowering season and hot, dry periods. Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant, ensuring that the soil is soaked to a depth of about 12 to 18 inches. During prolonged dry spells, increase watering frequency to twice a week. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases; instead, use a drip irrigation system or water at the base of the plant. Monitor the moisture level of the soil regularly and adjust the watering schedule based on rainfall and temperature changes.

Light

The Pat Austin rose thrives in full sunlight and should be planted in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. This exposure supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms. An ideal spot might be in an open garden bed or along a fence that faces south or west, ensuring plenty of natural light throughout the day. Avoid planting in areas with significant shade, as this can reduce blooming and weaken the plant.

Temperature

Pat Austin roses perform best in temperate climates with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 90°F. They typically can survive brief cold snaps down to around 20°F, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below this threshold can cause damage. For optimal growth and flowering, aim to maintain a garden environment where temperatures stay between 65°F and 75°F. Proper mulching around the base of the plant can help to regulate soil temperature and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.

Pruning

Prune Pat Austin roses in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to remove dead or diseased wood, to shape the plant, and to encourage vigorous growth and large, beautiful blooms. Annually cut back about one third of the older canes to promote fresh growth. After the first flush of blooms, deadheading can be done to encourage further blooming. Additionally, in summer, you can lightly trim the rose to maintain its shape and remove any weak or spindly stems.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Rosa 'Pat Austin' should be well-draining and fertile, with a mix of loam, peat, and compost. For this rose, an ideal soil pH would range from 6.0 to 6.5. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve structure and fertility.

Repotting

English Roses like 'Pat Austin' are typically grown outdoors and do not require repotting as they are not container plants. Instead, focus on planting them in a location where they can grow undisturbed for several years.

Humidity & Misting

Rosa 'Pat Austin' prefers moderate humidity levels. While specific humidity ranges are not critical for roses, ensuring good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases is essential.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  For indoor growth, ensure bright light and good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Rosa 'Pat Austin', also known as 'Ausmum', begins its life cycle as a dormant bare-root plant or potted specimen with stems and potentially some foliage. Upon planting, the rose enters a vegetative growth stage where roots establish and new shoots and leaves develop. As the plant matures, it enters the reproductive stage, producing buds that bloom into the distinctive, richly colored flowers in late spring to early summer and potentially through fall, depending on care and climate. After blooming, if spent flowers are not deadheaded, hips (seed pods) may form, containing seeds that can be dispersed to grow new plants, though cultivars like 'Pat Austin' are often propagated through cuttings to maintain genetic consistency. As temperatures drop in the fall, the plant begins to enter dormancy, conserving energy for the next growth cycle. Each year, the rose can be pruned to stimulate strong new growth and maintain a desirable shape, perpetuating its life cycle for many years as a perennial plant.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Rosa 'Pat Austin' or 'Ausmum', which is a patented variety of rose, can be propagated legally only by those who have permission from the patent holder, as the (PBR) designation indicates plant breeders' rights. Roses in general, including the 'Pat Austin', are most commonly propagated through vegetative methods rather than by seed due to the desire to maintain the exact genetic makeup of the parent plant. The most popular method of propagation for roses like 'Pat Austin' is softwood cuttings. This procedure is carried out in late spring or early summer when the new growth is still flexible. Cuttings, typically around 6 inches (15 centimeters) long, are taken from healthy stems with at least two sets of leaves at the top. The leaves at the bottom half of the cutting are removed, and the cut end may be treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings are then kept moist and in a warm environment with indirect light until they've rooted, which usually takes several weeks.