The culture of roses in the low desert is much easier than in other more temperate climates and we have the added bonus of fewer insect and disease problems. Roses provide splendid color during the cooler months of March to June and October to February. The hot summer weather between these two blooming seasons limits the size and quality of flowers produced. Once established, roses provided with moderate care will live and bloom for many years in the low desert.
There are many different types of roses. Two broad groups are Modern Roses and Old Garden Roses, sometimes referred to as antique roses. Modern Roses are those that were developed after the introduction of the first hybrid tea rose in 1867. Old Garden Roses are those classes of roses that existed before this event. Generally, Old Garden Roses can be divided into roses of European origin, which are cold hardy and once blooming (one bloom period per year), and roses that originated in Asia, which are repeat bloomers. Rosarians who grow both types often find that Old Garden Roses require less maintenance than Modern Roses, especially during the hot summer months.
This handout contains and overview of the different types of roses, planting guidelines and a chart with name, color, ARS rating, fragrance, flower and foliage description, and growth habit.