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What NPK Ratio Do Roses Need?

Penn State Extension

Roses need a balanced to phosphorus-rich NPK ratio like 4-6-4 or 5-10-5 to promote blooming. During spring growth, a balanced 10-10-10 works well. Switch to higher phosphorus during bloom season. Avoid very high nitrogen ratios which produce leaves at the expense of flowers. Dedicated rose fertilizers like Espoma Rose-tone (4-3-4) are formulated for optimal rose nutrition.

What You Need to Know

Roses need a balanced to phosphorus-rich NPK ratio like 4-6-4 or 5-10-5 to promote blooming. During spring growth, a balanced 10-10-10 works well. Switch to higher phosphorus during bloom season

Avoid very high nitrogen ratios which produce leaves at the expense of flowers. Dedicated rose fertilizers like Espoma Rose-tone (4-3-4) are formulated for optimal rose nutrition.

For personalized recommendations based on your specific garden size and fertilizer, use our fertilizer calculator.

Sources

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