Tea Rose Plants Have Small Leaves And No Blooms

Question From: Livonia, Michigan, United States
Q: I have 5 Hybrid Tea Rose Plants. They appear to be growing well, The leaves are small but NO BLOOMS. I fertilize them about once a Month. Currently they are about 2 Ft. tall. High vines but small leaves. I probably should use a different Fertilizer. What would you recommend to solve my Problem.

A: Lack of sun and excessive nitrogen fertilizer are usually the cause of no blooms. Roses need a maximum of 6 hours of sun a day. I recommend you back off on the fertilizer for at least six weeks. Keep the plants well watered. After the first blooms fertilize with Rose Tone by Espoma at the recommended rate. Go talk to my friends at Stenikopf Nursery for more help. You did not give me the names of your plants and where you bought them. It makes a difference. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy