Flower Carpet® roses / FAQs

Where can I buy Flower Carpet roses?
Why do I have to fertilize Flower Carpet roses?
Does disease tolerance mean Flower Carpet roses are immune?
How do I care for my Flower Carpet roses over winter?
What are the most popular uses of Flower Carpet roses?
What about Japanese beetles and aphids?
Are Flower Carpet roses always sold in the pink pot?
Do Flower Carpet roses need frequent watering?
Do I have to prune Flower Carpet roses?
Do I have to plant Flower Carpet roses in full sunlight?
Where can Flower Carpet roses be grown?

Where can I buy Flower Carpet roses?

Flower Carpet roses are sold at fine garden retailers across North America. As Flower Carpets are always in demand, it’s a good idea to call ahead to see if the color of Flower Carpet that interests you is in stock.

Why do I have to fertilize Flower Carpet roses?

Any plant that pushes out the amount of flowers a Flower Carpet rose does needs food. For maximum flowering and performance, feed with a balanced rose food. It is best not to feed roses in Fall and Winter as extra nutrients then will force new growth and increase the chances of cold-damage over Winter.

In warm climates (USDA zones 8 and up): feed in early Spring and late Summer.

In cold climates (USDA zones 5 – 7): feed in Spring and Summer.

Does disease tolerance mean Flower Carpet roses are immune?

Flower Carpet roses are among the most disease resistant roses ever bred – but they aren’t invincible. Flower Carpet can develop black spot or mildew, especially if a plant is in stress ( such as when planted in the first year before the plants can establish its water absorbing tap roots). Once established and settled in, Flower Carpet roses are very robust and unlikely to suffer unduly.

How do I care for my Flower Carpet roses over winter?

As you know, Flower Carpet does not require any fancy or fussy pruning. You can trim it to shape any time of the year if desired. However, it’s best not to cut it back too far at this time of year. Cutting it back signals the plants to sent out new top growth, whereas at this time of year, you want the energy to be focused on developing the roots, even in the warmer climates.

If you’re in Zones 5 and below, it’s best to protect them over winter with a little extra mulch placed close to the center of the plant (wood mulch, leaves, or anything to protect them from a heavy freeze). This will help to protect the plants and the soil around them from frost heaves, particularly in areas where you don’t get a heavy snow-cover.

In late winter or early spring, depending upon your geographical location, the roses can be cut back by about 2/3.

If you’re in Zones 8 and up (warmer climates), if you haven’t already done so, you can give them one more feeding of any balanced fertilizer (preferably a controlled release type). In colder climates, wait until spring to feed them again.

What are the most popular uses of Flower Carpet roses?

Flower Carpet roses are perfect for flower beds, mass plantings, large containers, landscapes, hanging baskets, and as tree roses. They make perfect commercial landscaping plants for low maintenance color.

What about Japanese beetles and aphids?

As a woody perennial, Flower Carpet roses can be attacked by pests such as Japanese beetles and aphids. The best defense is regular food and watering to keep the plant robust, and, if infested, treatment with insecticidal soap is recommended.

Are Flower Carpet roses always sold in the pink pot?

Flower Carpet roses are nearly always sold at retail in the trademark pink pot with the Flower Carpet logo. Flower Carpet roses also come with a special booklet with planting and care instructions, and a complimentary packet of slow release rose food. Occasionally you will find retailers that have larger sized Flower Carpet roses in the distinctive Monrovia green pot. They will still have the Flower Carpet logo and fertilizer attached so you can be sure they are the genuine Flower Carpet rose.

Do Flower Carpet roses need frequent watering?

All roses are thirsty and Flower Carpet roses are no exception. We recommend regular watering.

Do I have to prune Flower Carpet roses?

These roses don’t need fancy pruning - just cut canes back to 10 inches annually in late winter or early spring, or trim to shape anytime you feel like it. It should be as easy as giving them a once over with the hedge shears.

Do I have to plant Flower Carpet roses in full sunlight?

Flower Carpet roses like the sun. For best bloom, plant in full sun. Flower Carpet roses will also grow well in partial shade (4 to 5 hours of sun per day) with reduced blooms. In areas of intense dry heat and sun, plant in semi-shade/filtered light.

Where can Flower Carpet roses be grown?

Flower Carpet roses can be grown an most areas of the country. They will thrive in USDA zones 5 to 11. In cold zones, protect over the first Winter. Remember, that even in colder climate zones there are microclimates and protected areas that are warmer. In zones 6 and below, first season and continued Winter protection is advised. In areas of intense heat (for example Phoenix, AZ), protect by planting in semi-shade.