English Rose Rosa Susan Williams-ellis = 'Ausquirk' (PBR) (S)

Water

The English Rose 'Susan Williams-Ellis' should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage the roots to grow down deep into the soil. In general, watering once a week with about 1 to 2 gallons per plant should suffice, but this can vary depending on climate and soil conditions. During extremely hot or dry periods, water twice a week. The soil should be allowed to dry out somewhat between waterings. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases, and water early in the day to allow any moisture on the leaves to evaporate.

Light

English Roses like 'Susan Williams-Ellis' thrive in locations with full sun, getting at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They perform best when they are planted in a spot that receives morning sun, which helps dry the dew on the leaves and prevents fungal diseases. Avoid placing them in full shade as this can lead to weak flowering and poor growth.

Temperature

English Roses like 'Susan Williams-Ellis' can tolerate a range of temperatures, but they grow best when the temperature is between 65°F and 75°F. They can survive minimum winter temperatures down to around 20°F but may need protection in colder climates. In extreme heat over 95°F, roses may experience heat stress, so providing some afternoon shade in hotter regions can be beneficial.

Pruning

Pruning English Roses like 'Susan Williams-Ellis' is essential to maintain their shape, encourage new growth, and improve air circulation. Prune in late winter or early spring when new growth begins, removing dead or weak canes and thinning out the center of the plant. Also, prune after the first flush of blooms to encourage another round of flowering. Pruning can be repeated annually or as needed throughout the growing season to remove faded flowers and deadwood.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Rosa 'Susan Williams-Ellis' is well-drained loam enriched with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. The ideal pH range for this rose is between 6.0 and 7.0. Ensure the soil offers good drainage to prevent root rot, which roses are particularly susceptible to.

Repotting

Rosa 'Susan Williams-Ellis' typically does not require frequent repotting as it is a garden plant meant for outdoor planting. However, if grown in containers, it may need repotting every 2-3 years to replenish nutrients and prevent root binding.

Humidity & Misting

Rosa 'Susan Williams-Ellis' tolerates average outdoor humidity levels well. While specific humidity requirements are not critical for roses, it's important that the site has good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases such as black spot and powdery mildew.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, adequate water, and good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun, fertile soil, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Rosa 'Susan Williams-Ellis' ('Ausquirk') (S) begins its life cycle when seed germination occurs, although this plant is often propagated through cuttings to maintain its distinct characteristics. Following germination or root development in cuttings, the plant enters a juvenile vegetative stage, where it develops roots, leaves, and stems but does not yet flower. As it matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing creamy white blooms with a strong, pleasant fragrance typically from late spring to fall in repeated flushes. After pollination, which can be facilitated by insects like bees, the plant may produce hips (fruit) containing seeds that can disperse to give rise to new plants if conditions are favorable. Throughout its life, Rosa 'Susan Williams-Ellis' experiences periods of active growth in warm seasons and dormancy in winter, during which it conserves energy and may lose leaves in colder climates. The shrub can live for many years, with proper care extending its life through multiple decades, including regular pruning, which stimulates new growth and flower production.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• The Rosa 'Susan Williams-Ellis' is most commonly propagated by softwood cuttings, which is a method suitable for many roses. This process typically takes place in spring to early summer when new growth is still tender but mature enough to handle cutting. The cutting should be about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters) long with several leaves, and the bottom cut should be made at a 45-degree angle just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone for better results, and insert the cutting into a pot filled with a mix of moistened peat and perlite. The pot should then be covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and placed in indirect light until roots develop, which usually occurs in 4 to 8 weeks. After rooting, the new plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before planting in its final location.