Question
Greetings.

Actually, my question is a three-parter:

1. How does cotton burr compost perform in rose bed amendment compared with other alternatives?

2. How could it be improved?

3. What should I look for in the composition of a rose bed amendment?

Thanks for your help.

David Mace

Answer
Hi, David--most compost of any sort tends to raise the acidity of the soil.  If your native soil is on the alkaline side (above 6.8 or so), this would not require any additional ammendment.  If your soil is acidic, you will want to add some pelletized or pulverized (but not "quick")lime.  

Rose soil in general should be roughly 1/3 each clay, coarse (building or "red") sand, and organic matter--manure, compost, shredded mulch.  The pH should register between 6.3 and 6.8 on a meter--you can get one for about $20 which will work fine.  Some of my rosarian friends say pine bark or needles are preferable to hardwood mulch.

For more information, visit the American Rose Society at www.ars.org.  You will find answers to questions, listings for local societies and Consulting Rosarians whose help is free.  There are also lots of friendly folks on the rose forums at GardenWeb.com.  If I can be of more help, don't hesitate to contact me here!
Margarett in Memphis