Roses are among the most beloved flowers worldwide, but they require specific climate conditions to thrive. While some varieties adapt well to diverse environments, others flourish in specific regions. This Floristry guide explores the best climates for growing roses and how to care for them in different conditions.
Hey there, fellow rose enthusiasts! I’ve been absolutely fascinated by roses for years and let me tell you – these beauties can be pretty picky about where they grow. After diving deep into research and chatting with expert growers I’m excited to share the best places where roses truly flourish around the globe.
Top Rose-Growing Countries That’ll Blow Your Mind
1. Ecuador – The Rose Powerhouse
Let me start with the crown jewel of rose production – Ecuador! Here’s why it’s amazing
- Located near the equator with year-round sunlight
- High-altitude Andean landscape creates perfect growing conditions
- Roses grow up to 6 feet tall (I’m not kidding!)
- Produces thicker, more resilient blooms
- Exports over 4 billion roses annually
2. Colombia
- Major competitor to Ecuador
- Similar ideal growing conditions
- Perfect climate for year-round production
3. Kenya
- Supplies almost 40% of Europe’s cut roses
- Lake Naivasha region is perfect for growing
- Amazing infrastructure for rose export
- Growing market share in China and India
4. Netherlands
- The global flower trading hub
- Handles 40% of worldwide flower sales
- Perfect temperate maritime climate
- Long summer days = bigger blooms
- Advanced greenhouse technology
5. Ethiopia
- Emerging rose producer
- Growing export market
- Ideal climate conditions
What Makes These Places So Special?
Perfect Climate Conditions
The best rose-growing spots share these characteristics:
- Temperatures between 59-77°F (15-25°C)
- At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Moderate rainfall
- Good air circulation
- Distinct seasons (yeah, roses like variety!)
Soil Requirements
Roses are kinda picky about their soil
- pH level between 6.0-7.0
- Well-draining soil
- Sandy loam or loamy soil
- Rich in organic matter
Growing Your Own Roses? Here’s What You Need!
Even if you’re not in one of these prime locations, you can still grow gorgeous roses. Here’s my tried-and-true checklist:
- Sunlight
- Morning sun is best (trust me on this!)
- Minimum 6 hours daily
- Avoid deep shade
- Location
- Away from trees and big bushes
- Good air circulation
- Protected from strong winds
- Flat ground or slight slope
- Soil Prep
- Add well-rotted compost
- Ensure good drainage
- Test soil pH
- Don’t plant where roses grew before
Pro Tips from My Garden to Yours
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Space Matters
Don’t crowd your roses! I learned this the hard way – give them room to grow. Plant them diagonally instead of straight lines for better air flow. -
Wind Protection
Find that sweet spot where they’re protected but not suffocated. Near a wall can work great, just not too close! -
Soil Enhancement
If your soil isn’t perfect (mine sure wasn’t!), dig a bigger hole than you think you need and mix in lots of compost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring sunlight requirements
- Planting too close together
- Poor drainage
- Wrong soil pH
- Not considering wind exposure
The Future of Rose Growing
The rose industry is constantly evolving, with new techniques and locations emerging. Ethiopia and Kenya are becoming bigger players, while traditional producers like the Netherlands are focusing more on innovation and distribution.
Wrapping It Up
While these top locations have the perfect natural conditions for growing roses, don’t let that discourage you! With proper care and attention to these key factors, you can grow beautiful roses almost anywhere. Remember, it’s not just about where you grow them – it’s about how you grow them!
I’d love to hear about your rose-growing experiences! Drop a comment below about where you’re growing roses and what challenges you’ve faced. Happy gardening, folks!
P.S. – If you’re thinking about starting your own rose garden, why not try some varieties that are well-suited to your local climate? Local nurseries usually know what works best in your area!
C. Tropical & Subtropical Climates (Hot, Humid, or Rainy Seasons)
✔️ Regions: India, Southeast Asia, Brazil, Florida, Caribbean ✔️ Best Rose Types: China Roses, Bourbon Roses, Knockout Roses, Polyantha Roses ✔️ Challenges: High humidity leads to fungal diseases, excessive rainfall may cause root rot
Tips:
- Plant in raised beds or well-draining soil
- Ensure good air circulation to prevent disease
- Use fungicide treatments if necessary
D. Desert Climates (Hot Days, Cool Nights, Low Humidity)
✔️ Regions: Middle East, Southwest USA (Arizona, Nevada), Australia (interior regions) ✔️ Best Rose Types: Rugosa Roses, Shrub Roses, Miniature Roses, Native Desert Roses ✔️ Challenges: Intense sun, extreme heat, water scarcity
Tips:
- Water deeply in the early morning or evening
- Provide partial shade during the hottest parts of the day
- Use rock mulch to reduce soil evaporation
Growing Roses, A Complete Beginner’s Guide
FAQ
Which country grows the best roses?
The top two rose producing countries are Ecuador and Colombia because they can thrive in the cool and moist climate in the Andes.
Where does rose grow the most?
- Grasse, France. Grasse is often referred to as the ‘Perfume Capital of the World’. …
- The Netherlands. …
- Ecuador. …
- Colombia. …
- 5. California, USA. …
- Turkey. …
- India.
Where are most of the world’s roses grown?
But if you tour through the High Valley near Otavalo, you’ll see greenhouse after greenhouse that is filled with roses of every color. Some estimates peg Ecuador as the largest rose producer in the world (with Colombia also vying for the top spot) and it certainly has some of the world’s largest plantations.
What is the best climate for roses?
Zones 5, 6, 7 & 8
These regions are the ideal rose zone—perfect for most all roses. Cold temperatures are not typically a serious concern for roses planted in zones 5, 6, 7, or 8. These zones can typically grow a wide range of plants with minimal maintenance or upkeep.