Good alternatives to manure for roses - recommendations please

ChrisWM

I have read a lot about the advantages to manure for gardens, and wonder is there an alternative that comes close or is as good? Thanks.  Chris

Obelixx

I suggest you have a read of this article which explains the whys and wherefores and some alternatives - https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=865 

We will be using manure to improve and open up the heavy clay/solid brick soil where my new rose and clematis courtyard will be.   Our neighbours have 3 horses so we have it more or less on tap.   I will also use mycrorhizal fungae on their root balls when I plant them.

Our own garden compost will, when cooked, be used on other beds and the veggie plot.

Marlorena

As far as roses are concerned, the simple answer is ''not essential''... but you asked for an alternative, which is ''none''...
This is another one of those late 19th C/early 20th ordainments, perpetuated by gardener's everywhere, especially those more involved in landscaping, that insist this is the way to go, yet it emanates from those more interested in piling manure on roses for the show bench.

As long as you feed your roses with a suitable fertilizer, once or twice a season, and your soil is in reasonable condition, then manuring is a hobby for the fussy.  I'm fussy so I do it, or used to, as I'm finished with it now, and I'm not expecting anything detrimental to happen to my roses as a result..

For general gardening purposes, others might have opinions on that..

Obelixx

I agree - manure when planting to give them a good start but good soil care and seasonal feeding thereafter.

ChrisWM

Thanks, both.  I’ve just learned about diluted seaweed feed, and have ordered some for general nutrition of the roses and other plants.