Roses are among the most beloved flowering plants in U.S. gardens, offering a wide range of colors, fragrances, and growth habits. Selecting the best varieties depends on climate, soil conditions, and maintenance preferences. Below, we explore top rose varieties suited for different regions and gardening needs.
Hybrid Tea Roses are a popular choice for their elegant, high-centered blooms and long stems, making them ideal for cutting. Varieties like 'Peace' (yellow-pink blend) and 'Mister Lincoln' (deep red) thrive in USDA zones 5-9. These roses require full sun, well-drained soil, and regular pruning to encourage blooming.
Floribundas are known for their clusters of blooms and hardiness. Varieties such as 'Iceberg' (white) and 'Julia Child' (buttery yellow) perform well in zones 4-9. They are disease-resistant and bloom repeatedly, making them low-maintenance options for gardeners.
Knock Out Roses are celebrated for their exceptional disease resistance and continuous blooming. Varieties like 'Radrazz' (cherry red) and 'Sunny Knock Out' (yellow) adapt to zones 4-11. These shrubs are drought-tolerant and thrive in various soil types, requiring minimal care.
Climbing Roses add vertical interest to gardens. 'New Dawn' (pale pink) and 'Don Juan' (deep red) are excellent for trellises or fences in zones 5-9. They need sturdy support and annual pruning to maintain shape and promote flowering.
Shrub Roses, like 'Carefree Beauty' (pink) and 'Bonica' (rosy pink), are versatile and hardy, suitable for zones 4-9. They tolerate poor soil and require less pruning, making them ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
Old Garden Roses, such as 'Madame Hardy' (white) and 'Souvenir de la Malmaison' (blush pink), offer historic charm and strong fragrance. These varieties thrive in zones 4-9 but may require more attention to pest control and pruning.
Groundcover Roses, like 'Flower Carpet' (various colors), are perfect for slopes or mass plantings. They are disease-resistant and thrive in zones 4-10, spreading quickly with minimal care.
Miniature Roses, such as 'Sun Sprinkles' (yellow) and 'Lavender Jewel' (purple), are ideal for containers or small gardens. They grow well in zones 5-9 and require regular watering and fertilizing.
For Northern states, hardy varieties like 'William Baffin' (climbing) are recommended. In Southern states, heat-tolerant roses like 'Louis Philippe' thrive. Coastal areas benefit from salt-resistant varieties such as 'Sea Foam'.
