The popularity of organic gardening methods will lead to a healthier community and environment at large. A part of this is using organic gardening to grow rose gardens. Roses have always topped the popularity charts when it comes to flowers, and they are the favorites of most people worldwide. Gardeners find it a special treat to be able to grow these beautiful, fragrant flowers in different varieties, as they add a touch of grace to any garden. Apart from being so beautiful, the rose plant also has medicinal properties. The petals of the rose flower contain tannin, the astringent - effective in the control of wounds which bleed.



These petals as well as rose water also help to cure stomach problems. However, the roses are being weakened because of consistent hybridization and being exposed to pathogen attacks in this manner. Hybrid roses may be beautiful but they are also really weak. Organic gardening is a different approach and uses organisms, extracts of plants and natural waste to enhance soil quality. Organisms form natural symbiotic relationships, in which each helps the other survive.

An example of one such symbiotic relationship in context with rose gardens is the relationship between rose plants and the Mycorrhizal fungus. The fungus attaches itself to the roots of the rose plants in order to use the carbohydrates stored there for survival, and in turn helps the rose plant of absorb enriching minerals much better than it otherwise would. Another such symbiotic relationship is seen to exist between the root secretions of the rose plants and certain bacteria.

These bacteria use the secretions to thrive and in turn get rid of potentially harmful fungi that could prove really dangerous to the rose plant. Another thing that really enhances the rose plant's ability to absorb minerals is the natural humus comprising decomposed dead plant leaves and stems, aided by the organisms that live in the soil. Compost and humus really enrich the rose plant and aid growth and fertility, resulting in a thriving and blooming organic rose garden. You could also try companion plants in your organic rose garden; because they help each other grow. Roses and garlic or onion trees make each other thrive, and get along very well together, so plant them side by side for healthy rose, onion and/or garlic plants.

Other companions for your precious roses include the marigold, thyme and mignonette plants. Plant roses ideally in early summer or spring, and keep them at a comfortable distance away from each other. They love loads of water when its time for them to bloom. They should be soaked thoroughly in the morning or the evening, and organic compost and fertilizers should be added to their soil during growing season. They thrive when the soil has a pH of 5.5 to 7. Mulching benefits rose plants immensely, so dead leaves and bark should be scattered over the topsoil. After early spring growth begins, it is a good idea to prune the roses. The spent flowers should be dead-headed to achieve a better bloom overall.