Southeast Region

Hardiness zones 5-10

Alabama,Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisana, Maryland, Mississippi, N. Carolina, S,. Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennesse, eastern Texas

From the Southwestern Desserts to Sunny California, this region has plenty of sunshine, but little rain.

Good watering maintance is crucial. So is amending the soil with plenty of organic matter.

The Dessert area is known for its extreme temperature swings. Frosts are rare, but summer temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees!

Rust is a problem for both coastal and inland gardens

Roses bloom year round in Southern California. Rose gardeners in the area, suggest buying your bare root plants in Nov., Dec., or Jan., planting them in 5 gallon pots, and then transplanting in the ground in Sept.

Heat tolarant roses are a must!

Sheila's Perfume

photo courtsey Drew Avery

Julia Child

photo courtsey Drew Avery

Information for Florida Gardeners

Although the beautiful Hybrid Teas do wonderful in this area, you should only grow them if you are a Devoted rose gardener, willing to spray and fuss with them.

Shrub roses do well with less care. They bloom from April til February.

One problem gardeners in Florida have to deal with is root-knot nematodes. They infest the plant roots, killing them.

Grafted rootstock, that are resistant to nematodes are a must. Own root roses,will usually die after one season from nematodes.

Because of the long growing season, lots of sunshine, and generous rainfal,the roses tend to get very big. Keep this in mind when planting, and give them plenty of room!

High temperatures quickly exhaust the bushes, so supplemental watering is essential.

Mulching is also very important!

Go from Plant Guides for the Southeast Region to:Care of Roses