Mild autumn weather could keep UK roses flowering until Christmas

Roses could be flowering in gardens across the UK at Christmas after mild, rainy autumn weather prompted fresh growth following a very hot summer. The late blooms are unusual and may bring colour into December, while also requiring gardeners to adjust seasonal care.

Horticulturalist Toby Davis said healthy, well-fed roses may flower until Christmas and beyond. At RHS Garden Rosemoor in Devon, Sally Newbrook expects as many as half its roses could be in bloom at the end of the year; the UK recorded temperatures above 28C on 55 days this summer. Dahlias and geraniums are also flowering late, but warmer seasons may complicate winter pruning and disease control.