Growing Roses in Florida: What You Need to Know

Roses are timeless favorites, but if you’ve tried growing them in Florida, you already know they can be a little finicky in our heat and humidity. The good news is, with the right varieties and some Florida-specific know-how, you can enjoy gorgeous blooms in your garden year after year.

Why Fortuniana Rootstock Matters

In Florida, roses perform best when grafted onto Fortuniana rootstock. According to the University of Florida IFAS Extension, Fortuniana gives roses stronger root systems, improved disease resistance, and better performance in our sandy soils. It’s the foundation that helps roses thrive where others often struggle.

At Lindley’s Garden Center, we proudly carry Nelson’s Florida Roses, which are grafted on Fortuniana and grown right here in the state. These roses are specifically suited to our conditions and deliver the best results for Florida gardeners.

Star Rose Varieties for Florida

Along with Nelson’s, we also recommend easy-care Star® Roses like Drift® and Knock Out®. These landscape roses are known for their toughness and consistent blooms. They don’t require as much fussing and do especially well in Florida’s climate.

Seasonal Challenges

Even the best roses need a break in summer. From July through early September, our high heat and humidity put stress on rose plants. During this time, you may notice fewer blooms or plants looking tired. Don’t worry—this is normal. With a little patience (and maybe a touch of Espoma or Fertilome fertilizer), your roses will bounce back beautifully as temperatures begin to ease.

Stop by and See What’s in Bloom

Whether you’re dreaming of classic hybrid teas, vibrant Knock Outs, or charming Drift roses, our team can help you choose the perfect varieties for your garden. As always, we’re here to share tips, answer questions, and make sure your roses thrive in New Smyrna Beach’s Zone 10A growing conditions.