Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue' ®

 

Key Features of Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue'

• Height: 1 – 1.2 meters (3 – 4 feet)
• Spread: 0.6 – 0.9 meters (2 – 3 feet)
• Bloom Time: June to October
• Flower Color: Lilac-blue with a hint of mauve
• Fragrance: Strong and sweet
• Growth Habit: Bushy and compact
• Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zone 5

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Ideal Growing Conditions for Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue'

1. Sunlight Requirements

Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue' thrives best in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. This exposure promotes robust growth and ensures a profusion of blooms. While it can tolerate partial shade, planting in full sun will maximize flowering and enhance the intensity of its colors.

2. Soil and Planting

• Well-Drained Soil: This rose prefers rich, well-drained soil with good fertility. A soil mix that retains some moisture while allowing excess water to drain is ideal for preventing root rot.
• Soil pH: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0. If necessary, amend your soil with compost or organic matter to improve its structure and nutrient content.
• Planting Depth: When planting, ensure the graft union (the swollen area where the rose variety is grafted onto rootstock) is just below the soil surface to protect it from frost.

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Maintenance Tips for Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue'

Watering

• Regular Watering: During the growing season, water deeply once a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. Adjust watering frequency according to rainfall and heat, especially during dry spells.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulch also prevents the soil from compacting, ensuring good drainage.

Fertilizing

• Feed in Spring: Use a balanced rose fertilizer or slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring when new growth begins. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
• Organic Options: Consider adding compost or well-rotted manure to provide additional nutrients. Fertilizing every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season will promote vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

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Pruning and Deadheading

Pruning

• Annual Pruning: Prune 'Rhapsody in Blue' in late winter or early spring (February to March) before new growth starts. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, and cut back the remaining stems by about one-third to encourage healthy growth.
• Shaping: Aim to maintain an open center in the plant to allow for good air circulation, reducing the risk of disease.

Deadheading

• Remove Spent Blooms: Regularly deadhead spent flowers by cutting back to a healthy leaf node. This encourages continuous blooming throughout the season and keeps the plant looking tidy.

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Pests and Diseases

Common Pests

• Aphids: Keep an eye out for aphids, which can be controlled with water sprays or insecticidal soap if numbers are high.
• Spider Mites: These pests can thrive in hot, dry conditions. Ensure adequate watering and humidity around the plant to deter them. Neem oil can also be effective against infestations.

Disease Prevention

• Black Spot and Powdery Mildew: Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue' is relatively resistant to disease but can be affected in humid conditions. To minimize risk, ensure good air circulation by maintaining proper spacing between plants and avoid overhead watering.
• Good Hygiene: Clear fallen leaves and debris from around the plant to prevent fungal diseases and pests from taking hold.

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Winter Care and Protection

Winter Protection

• Mulching for Winter: In late autumn, apply a thicker layer of mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. In colder climates, consider wrapping the base of the plant with burlap for additional protection.
• Pruning Considerations: While you can prune in late winter, avoid cutting back too much in autumn, as this can expose the plant to winter damage.

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Conclusion

Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue' is a beautiful and hardy rose that can bring a splash of color and fragrance to your garden. With proper care, including regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning, this enchanting rose will thrive and bloom profusely, adding a touch of elegance and charm to your outdoor space.

Quick Care Summary for Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue'

• Height: 1 – 1.2 meters (3 – 4 feet)
• Spread: 0.6 – 0.9 meters (2 – 3 feet)
• Sunlight: Full sun (6 to 8 hours)
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0
• Watering: Deep watering once a week, adjusted for rainfall
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season
• Pruning: Prune annually in late winter or early spring
• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to promote blooming

With its stunning blooms and delightful fragrance, Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue' is a captivating addition to any garden, making it a favorite among rose enthusiasts and gardeners alike. Embrace its beauty and follow these care guidelines to ensure your rose flourishes for years to come.

Standard Delivery per parcel*	€6.95
* parcels up to 30kg or within dimensions volume
* free delivery over €250 on standard items (excludes large/bulky items)
* multiple purchases qualify for combined delivery
For large items please ring us on 069-64084 to discuss delivery.

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

 

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If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.