Regional Growing Guide: Coastal and Tropical 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.
Select a season: Spring Early Summer Late Summer Fall
Plant Rose Companions
Bulbs and perennials make good companions to roses and add interest during the offseason. Naturalizing daffodils finish their show before the roses get going. Choose perennials that share roses' love of copious amounts of fertilizer and water.
Let Roses Breathe
Allow plenty of space around your plants for air to circulate, and prune to keep them from getting in each other's way. This will go a long way to minimizing pest problems. Removing fallen leaves and keeping beds weeded will also help, and it will keep beds looking their best, too.
Take A Rose Tour
Take a drive around to scope out different rose varieties. Public gardens and nurseries are great places to get a sneak peek at varieties and find a few you just can't live without. Visiting gardens also is a good way to get some ideas for using roses in the landscape.
Pruning Roses
February is the primary time for pruning all roses except climbers, but it's not the only time roses need pruning. Once the spring-only bloomers finish, prune them to remove spent flowers and shape the shrubs. The remontant, or reblooming, roses, can be pruned after each flush to shape.
Cutting Roses
Whenever possible, cut roses in the early morning or late afternoon. Take a bucket of tepid water with you, and a single-bladed knife. Cut the rose stems on a slant and plunge the stems in water immediately. Once inside, cut again before arranging, then again daily for longest life.