Hardiness Zones for Growing Roses

If you’ve already begun to dig into the world of roses, you’ve probably heard of the USDA Hardiness Zones. But what do they mean exactly, and what purpose do they serve?

Developed by the United States Department of Agriculture, the USDA Hardiness Zones serve as a standard to help gardeners and growers figure out which plants are most likely to thrive in their location. 

Zones range from 1A in Alaska to 13B in Puerto Rico. Each zone is based on its average annual minimum temperatures and represents a 10-degree-Fahrenheit range. Zones A & B break down even further – into 5-degree increments. 

When shopping for a rose, the seller will usually provide zone suitability. Most states are composed of several zones. If you live in the US, you can check out the interactive USDA Hardiness Map on the USDA website. Enter your zip code to find your zone.

Guide to Hardiness Zones

Knowing your zone before choosing a rose is crucial. This can make the difference between whether your rose lives a happy, healthy life or expires too soon. Once you know your zone, you’ll have a better idea of when to plant and when not to plant. Plus, many sellers will void your warranty if you buy a rose unsuitable for your zone.

Hardiness Zones 1-3

The extreme cold in zones 1-3 can make planting roses quite difficult. Winter temperatures range anywhere from -60F to -30F. In zones 1-2, the sad truth is that most roses won’t survive. But in zone 3, there’s still hope!

Top tips for growing roses in zone 3:

• Plant in a location with full sun (6 hours per day)

• Bury the bud union to protect against wind rock

• Add mulch for an extra layer of protection and warmth

States in Zones 1-3:

• Alaska

• Connecticut

• Maine

• Minnesota

• Montana

• New Hampshire

• New York

• North Dakota

• Rhode Island

• Vermont

• Wisconsin
  
  

Hardiness Zones 4-6

With temperatures ranging from -30F to 0F, zones 4-6 are considered transition zones. With the right winter protection, a slightly wider variety of rose types can be planted.

Top tips for planting your roses in zones 4-6 are:

• Plant in a sunny location with well-drained soil.

• Add mulch to give your roses extra warmth for withstanding winter temperatures.

• Prune as needed to promote healthy growth.

States in zones 4-6:

• Alaska

• Arizona

• California

• Colorado

• Georgia

• Idaho

• Iowa

• Kansas

• Kentucky

• Maine

• Michigan

• Minnesota

• Missouri

• Montana

• Nebraska

• New Hampshire

• New York

• North Carolina

• Ohio

• Oregon

• South Carolina

• Tennessee 

• Vermont

• Washington

• Wisconsin

• Wyoming

Hardiness Zones 7-9

Most traditional rose varieties can thrive in zones 7-9. With longer growing seasons and less frost impact, you have more wiggle room with planting times. Winter temperatures range from 0F to 30F.

Top tips for growing roses in zones 7-9 are:

• Plant in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.

• While mulching isn’t as crucial as in lower zones, it’s still a good idea in case of a cold snap.

• Amend the soil with compost or organic matter to provide nutrients to your roses.

States in zones 7-9:

• Alabama

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• California

• Connecticut

• Florida

• Georgia

• Hawaii

• Louisiana 

• Mississippi

• Nevada

• New Mexico

• North Carolina

• Oregon

• South Carolina

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Utah

• Virginia

• Washington

Hardiness Zones 10-13

With winter temperatures ranging from 30F to 70F, zones 10-13 are the warmest in the country. While you won’t face the challenges of harsh winters in lower zones, there are a few important things to keep in mind when growing roses in warmer climates.

Top tips for growing roses in zones 10-13 are:

• Plant in a location with partial shade. 

• Water deeply 2-3 times per week – ensuring they get 4-5 gallons per week. Space out watering times so that the soil has time to dry out just a little. 

• Add a layer of mulch to aid in water retention. 

States in zones 10-13:

• California

• Arizona

• New Mexico

• Texas

• Florida

• Hawaii

Selecting Roses for Each Zone

Zone 3: The cold hardy rugosa rose and some hybrid tea roses can be planted under the conditions of zone 3.

Zones 4-6: Rose types suitable for these zones include varieties of hybrid teas, floribundas, climbing roses, and rambling roses.

Zones 7-9:  For these zones, suitable roses are hybrid teas, floribundas, climbing roses, and rambling roses.  

Zones 10-13: Heat-tolerant roses that can grow well in zones 10-13 include floribundas, climbing roses, and knock out roses. 

Get Your Perfect Rose Type

Understanding the USDA hardiness zones is essential to growing a healthy, beautiful garden. Before you choose a rose, make sure it’s compatible with your location. Head over to April and Ashley to shop by hardiness zone to select the perfect roses for your garden!

Happy Gardening,

April & Ashley