Rose

Light: At least 6 hours of direct sun, preferably morning sun with afternoon shade. Avoid reflected heat from west-facing walls and pavement.

Water: Water deeply at the root zone, wetting soil 18–24 inches deep for established shrubs. Rewater when the upper 2–3 inches begin to dry; increase frequency during extreme summer heat and reduce in winter. Containers and new plants need more frequent checks.

Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost; slightly acidic soil is preferred. Phoenix’s alkaline soils may require nutrient management. Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch, keeping it away from the crown.

Mature size: Varies by cultivar; many shrub and hybrid tea roses reach 3–6 feet tall and 2–5 feet wide. Miniatures are smaller, while climbers may produce canes 10–20 feet long.

Bloom: Repeat-blooming varieties flower most heavily in spring and fall, with fewer, smaller blooms during extreme summer heat. Once-blooming varieties generally flower in spring.

Evergreen / deciduous: Generally deciduous, but often semi-evergreen in Phoenix’s mild winters.

Growth rate: Moderate to fast during spring and fall; growth slows in extreme heat.