Regional Growing Guide: Middle South
Hot, hazy and humid describes much of the year in this region, where roses commence their first peak of bloom by Mother's Day, then continue budding out and blooming through December. While most of the rain comes during winter and early spring, fierce afternoon thunderstorms, nor-easters and even hurricanes may blow through during summer months. The soil may be acidic or sandy: amending with lime helps balance the pH, while compost provides nutrients and improves drainage. The best roses are heat tolerant and resist black spot: new roses often offer improved repeat blooming as well.
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Web sites
Roses and Clematis
Learn everything you need to know about pairing these two popular garden plants, including choosing complementary varieties, planning for continuous bloom, and planting and maintenance guidelines. Website Link
Recipes
Rose Petal Honey
Collect one handful of unsprayed fresh rose petals of any color and wash and dry them gently. Place in a pint jar. Heat one cup mild honey, such as orange blossom, in a non-reacting pan until warm to the touch. Do not boil. Pour the honey over the rose petals, put a lid on the jar and put in a dark, cool spot for several days.
Decant the honey by heating the jar in a pan full of water, and then pouring the honey through a sieve to catch the rose petals. Use the honey for a little bit of romance in your tea or over warm scones.