What would be wrong with just applying the Osmocote or the Espoma Rose-tone after it blooms? You have used alfalfa, at least some amount, if you've fertilized it with Rose-tone.

feed the soil, not the plant....this is the mantra I use...I've read this countless times and heard it on a video.

keep ammending the soil with compost, alfalfa, mulch...and you won't have to worry about feeding the rose.

robert

Thank you for your advice. I was mainly wondering if Osmocote should NOT be used ever with BDdC. Not sure why I thought I remembered someone raising an objection some time in the past. Evidently it is no problem.

rjlinva, usually when I say "feed my roses," I am referring to RoseTone, compost, alfalfa, and mulch. So I agree with you there. However, as I get older, I sometimes forget or just don't feel physically up to all that. My compromise, after the spring feed, is to use continuous feed like Osmocote once for the summer months to save me time and effort and a sore back. But sometimes I forget to do that too. Oh, those senior moments! LOL

Kate

My rugosas like 10-10-10 or 12-12-12.

Kate, don't you just love, love, LOVE your BDdC? Mine is 3 years old and is finally giving me a nice spring flush. It is still pretty low growing. It is lovely! I use Rosetone, Mills Mix, Mills Easy Feed and sometimes Osmocote. I'm so disorganized! BDdC got RoseTone in March and then Mills liquid Easy feed last week. Oh...the scent!