Roses in Georgia: Selecting and Growing Techniques

Roses are one of the most beloved garden flowers grown throughout the United States. In the Peach State of Georgia, roses can bring beauty to outdoor spaces from spring through fall if the right varieties are selected for our climate. However, not all rose bushes sold at nurseries and garden centers will thrive in every region of the state.

Factors like heat, humidity levels, disease pressure, and soil conditions vary across Georgia's different plant hardiness zones. As a result, certain rose cultivars adapted for cooler or wetter locations may struggle when planted in parts of middle and south Georgia. Of equal importance is choosing appropriate growing locations with the necessary sun exposure and well-draining soil amended with organic matter.

Best Roses for Georgia

When choosing roses for your Georgia garden, focus on varieties described as being disease-resistant and heat-tolerant. Some of the top rose varieties for Georgia include:

Knock Out roses

This series of shrub roses are extremely hardy and remain disease-free throughout the summer months. Popular varieties include 'Pink Knock Out', 'White Knock Out', and 'Red Knock Out'.

Easy Elegance roses

These hybrid tea roses are highly heat tolerant and resist black spot disease. Varieties like 'Carefree Wonder' and 'Elegant Pink' produce fragrant blooms all season.

Floribunda roses

These bushy roses produce large clusters of cheerful blooms. Try low-maintenance varieties like 'Sweet Chariot' and 'Livin' Easy'.

Where Do Roses Grow Best?

Roses grow well in many landscape situations throughout Georgia:

In garden beds

Prepare soil with organic amendments like compost and plant roses in groups or as a border planting.

Along fences or arbors

Roses twining up structures will provide beautiful blooms and foliage. Train them on sturdy supports.

In containers

Potted roses can be placed on patios, decks, or near entryways if given adequate care. Use a large pot (14" minimum) and well-draining potting mix.

Along sidewalks or driveways

Low-growing shrub roses will thrive when sited in full sun and provide colorful accents.

How Do Long Stem Roses Grow?

If you are thinking of growing long-stem roses for cutting gardens or bouquets, focus on varieties known for long, strong stems that will hold up blooms after cutting. Hybrid teas, floribundas, and grandifloras are all good options for cut flower roses. Here are some tips:

• Stake or trellis climbing roses to keep stems upright and prevent wind damage.

• Prune lightly in spring to encourage stem growth over bushiness. Remove spent blooms regularly to prolong flowering.

• Fertilize monthly during the growing season with balanced rose fertilizer to support lengthy stems.

• Give roses ample room, at least 3 feet between plants, so air can circulate and prevent disease.

Best Roses for Pots

If growing space or physical limitations restrict in-ground plantings, potted roses can still provide lovely floral displays. Floribunda and shrub roses generally do best contained:

Carefree Wonder

This hybrid tea rose bears light pink clusters on a compact, disease-resistant plant.

Knock Out' series

Especially 'Pink Knock Out' and 'Double Knock Out', these remain pest-free all season.

Sweet Chariot

Easy-care floribunda produces raspberry blooms in large clusters.

Downton Abbey

An English shrub rose with abundant apricot blooms and good pot performance.

For containers, select rose varieties from your local florist in atlanta GA, that is labeled patio or miniature types. Make sure pots have drainage holes and use a moisture-retentive potting mix. Repot annually in spring with organic fertilizer added.

Best Roses for Cut Flowers

If your goal is fresh-cut roses for indoor bouquets and arrangements, focus on varieties known to be prolific bloomers throughout the growing season. Repeated bud removal will trigger additional flowering. Top options include:

• Floribunda roses like 'Melody Parade' and 'Pink Peace' produce non-stop floriferous clumps of blooms.

• Grandiflora roses such as 'First Prize' and 'Super Hero' bear large semi-clothed blooms on vigorous, cut-and-come-again plants.

• Hybrid teas like 'Black Magic' and 'Pink Double Delight' yield classic blooms perfect for vases.

• Shrub roses like 'Flower Carpet' series have masses of small, layered blossoms ideal for mixed bouquets.

When to Plant Roses in Georgia

Based on Georgia's climate zones 7 to 9, the best times to plant bare root or containerized roses are:

Late winter (February)

Put young roses into the ground as soon as nighttime lows stay above 25°F. Water them well.

Early spring (March-April)

Most established garden centers will have a good rose selection by now. Plant and water new additions regularly.

Late summer/early fall (August-September)

Roses planted now have ideal temperatures to get established before winter. Water weekly if rain is scarce.

Avoid very hot periods from May to July, when transplants can struggle. Newly planted stock will need regular watering, mulch, and protection from harsh afternoons.

If you don't have the time or space to devote to growing your own roses but still want to enjoy fresh-cut blooms, consider ordering arrangements from a local florist. Tucker Flower Shop offers a lovely selection of rose bouquets, perfect for brightening up your home or giving as a gift. Order same-day flower delivery!