Rose 'Desdemona'

Feed with blood fish and bone early spring as growth starts and again after the first flush of flowers. Scrape back the top most layer of earth, being careful not to disturb the roots. Sprinkle on the blood fish and bone and replace the soil.
Dead head throughout the flowering period, and prune in the dormant period in the winter. Prune by removing dead or diseased wood, and stems that cross or rub together. Then reduce the remaining stems by a half or two thirds depending upon the desired effect

Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Desdemona is thought of as hardy, so this plant will survive close to or on freezing temperatures.

Roses are not usually grown from seed as they do not come true. Roses are normally propagated from cuttings and in a commercial situation they are grafted onto root stock

Choose a sunny spot and dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots without restriction. Backfill and adding blood fish and bone, firm in and water

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Desdemona is a hardy plant.

David Austin, Shropshire UK

Desdemona is the heroine of ‘Othello’ William Shakespeare