We source our roses from Nelson’s Florida Roses, which are grafted onto a long-living, tough rootstock called Fortuniana. This makes Hybrid Teas, Grandifloras, Floribundas, and Climbing Roses thrive here in Florida.
They are notorious for being challenging here, but with the right knowledge and materials, you can grow beautiful roses!
1. Choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
2. When planting, be sure to space plants 3 to 4 feet from one another.
3. Be prepared to spray your roses. Using a preventative spray 2 to 3 times a month will keep black fungal spots and insects at bay.
4. Prune heavily in the winter and lightly throughout the year. Deadheading on a regular basis will encourage more blooming.
5. Cut away suckers. These are shoots below the graft point (see our post for a photo) that will suck energy away from the desired rose.
Now, here’s how to plant:
Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. Backfill the hole with a 50/50 mix of Black Gold Ultra Outdoor Planting Mix and native soil, as well as the appropriate amount of Bio-Tone Starter Plus, and water in well. Fertilize with our Kerby’s Special one month after planting. Begin using preventative spray 2 weeks after planting.
Enjoy your beautiful rose garden!