Rosa 'Hot Chocolate'

Description: An unusual coloured rose with flowers which start in bud as rusty orange and open to rich velvety and smoky brown blooms with a good scent. Trusses of flowers produced throughout the summer on a small compact bush with healthy, glossy, dark green foliage.

Uses: Particularly useful in 'hot' themed borders and as it is compact is also suitable for growing in a large pot on a sunny patio.

Climate/Position: Full sun for best colour.

Height/Spread: 90 cm x 80 cm

Soil Requirements: Though roses will tolerate most soil types, for best results roses prefer deep, rich, free draining soils with plenty of organic matter.

Avoid planting in sites that have previously been used for growing roses. Add organic matter before planting and mulch regularly for best results.

Pruning: Pruning roses is best undertaken at the end of February. On all plants remove any dead and diseased stems, as well as very weak and thin stems, and then the oldest stems to encourage rejuvenation. Try to develop an open vase shaped bush for better air movement to reduce risk of pests and disease. Cut down the height by between one third and two thirds.

Within the flowering season, dead heading blooms after colour throughout the season will improve the overall look and flowering capacity of the plant.

Special Requirements: Feeding roses in spring and applying annual mulch will enhance performance, encourage healthy growth and lead to improved flowering.

Additional Interest: Trade name 'Wekpaltez' Voted 'Novelty Rose of the Year 2006' by the National Rose Society