Regional Growing Guide: So. California Coastal & Inland Valleys
From the sunny beaches of California to the blistering deserts of the Southwest, this region is marked by nearly year-round sunshine and little rain. Roses bloom from April through December in the more temperate parts, while they take a rest during August and September in the great deserts, where searing temperatures vary little between day and night. There, roses have two seasons: spring and fall, with peak blooming in April and October. Ample irrigation is key. Soils may be alkaline or sand: it's important to amend with plenty of organic matter. The best roses are heat tolerant, and tend to bear darker leaves and bloom in more intensely saturated colors.
Select a season: Spring Early Summer Late Summer Fall
Prune and Feed
Lightly prune, feed, and water roses on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to encourage them to flower continuously into the late fall. But use only one-quarter the amount of fertilizer that you'd use if you fed them less frequently. The objective is to apply a minimal amount of fertilizer each time you water.
Keep the Blossoms Coming
Trim faded blooms down to the first five-part leaf throughout the season. New blooms will appear in about three weeks.
Give Roses an Overall Pruning
Prune branches all over the plant to maintain a pleasing shape. This helps strengthen the lower canes and root system.
Smash the Suckers
Remove suckers from below the graft. Then smash the bases of the sucker growth so repeat growth is discouraged.
Cut Bouquets at Day's End
Some gardeners find that cut roses last longer when cut late in the day, unlike other blooms, which last longer when cut early in the morning. It's possible that the sugar that the leaves manufacture and store during the day remains there, nourishing the blooms. Experiment and see what timing works best for you.