keeping roses in florida

Maintaining Roses

Successfully Maintaining Roses in South Florida

There’s something inherently desirable about roses. They’ve been written and sung about since ancient times. Rose fossils have been found dating to 35 million years ago and there are currently more than 150 species in the Northern Hemisphere. They were so highly prized in the 15th century that the plants and rose water was an accepted form of currency.

Individuals can grow roses in virtually every color of the rainbow in single or double flower forms, many of which are highly fragrant. Each type of rose variety also has height variations – an important fact to know when selecting a favorite. Those that want roses in the environment can choose from multiple types.

  • Miniatures are typically grown as houseplants.
  • Polyanthas roses range in height from 18 to 24 inches.
  • Floribunda roses grow from 1.5 to 2.5 feet in height.
  • Grandiflora roses are the result of modern breeding programs and grow from 3 to 5 feet tall.
  • Hybrid tea roses range from 3 to 8 feet in height.
  • Climbing roses, sometimes referred to as rambling roses, can attain heights of 20 feet.

Growing roses in South Florida is entirely possible, providing gardeners pay attention to their needs. Roses need 6 to 8 hours of morning sun each day – midday sun is too hot – and soil that’s rich in organic matter. They’re heavy feeders and don’t do well near plants competing for nutrients. Monthly feedings will do wonders for keeping them healthy and happy. Roses can also be grown in containers.

A drip irrigation system is best for in-ground roses as it doesn’t get water on the leaves or blooms that can make them vulnerable to disease. There are some varieties that do better than others in the Florida environment. They include Don Juan, Gold Medal, Christian Dior, Belinda’s Dream and Perfume Delight.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

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Keeping Roses in Florida

Many Florida residents long for the sight and scent of roses in their garden. Getting roses to grow in Florida can be done, but it’s not an easy undertaking. The very weather conditions that people seek to enjoy can actively conspire against growing them.

Sun

Roses need to be planted in full sun where they’ll receive 6-8 hours of sun each day. However, the afternoon sun in Florida can be too hot for the plants. An ideal location is a place where they’ll receive the majority of their light requirements from morning sun and a limited amount of afternoon sun.

Feeding

Roses are deep and heavy feeders. Their roots can easily extend 15 inches or more down into the soil. They also don’t like to be planted near the roots of other plants, though they don’t seem to mind growing near the roots of other roses.

Soil

The soil should be well-drained – roses don’t like wet feet. The plants like loamy soils and black dirt rich in organic matter. Those conditions can be difficult to accommodate in the garden without amendments to the soil or the assistance of a landscaper. It’s led many people to grow them in containers.

Water

A drip or soaker hose system is best for roses. It enables water to be placed at ground level near the root system where it’s needed. The humid climate can lead to powdery mildew and leaf spot if they’re watered from above.

Type

The type of rose is also important. Most people envision tea roses, but gardeners can also choose from miniatures, floribundas, grandifloras, polyanthas, shrub types and climbers, along with tree roses that have been grafted and trained to grow into tree form. Some withstand the Florida climate better than others.

Insect Pests

Roses are subject to damage by the same types of insect pests as other plants. They’re especially attractive to Japanese beetles and nematodes. A new pest and an emerging threat introduced from Asia, Africa, and Oceania is the chilli thrip. The insect isn’t fussy about what it consumes and typically damages buds and leaves. It’s best to call a landscape professional if an infestation occurs.

RCH Landscaping is a full service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install, and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians have an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Read more
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