Question
QUESTION: I have several rose bushes that despite my cutting back and feeding, have become leggy and lost their leaves toward the bottom. How can I salvage them? Cut them way back and feed and water? I live in Arlington Virginia and think I may not have given them as much attention as they need. They are in full sun.
Thanks,
Honor

ANSWER: When you say you have cut them back are you talking about a little or a lot? To make roses bush out, you need to be mean and whack them right down to about 12 inches. Some roses grow leggy naturally so you may not be able to keep them down but it is worth a try. Also pull back on the fertilizing as nitrogen causes excessive growth in some roses. Try something like a slow release such as Osmocote 14-14-14.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your timely response! I may not have cut them back enough, can I do that now in the beginning of summer?

Answer
I would do it now as the roses will have a few months to put out new growth before the winter sets in. I cut my untidy roses or those I have made a mistake in pruning, back at this time and it always solves the problem. Water well and only one small amount of fertilizer.