## Factors Influencing the Choice of Planting in Rose Flower Production
- Climate: Roses thrive in temperate climates with moderate temperatures and ample sunlight.
- Soil: Ideal soils are well-drained, rich in organic matter, and have a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Water availability: Roses require regular watering, especially during the growing season.
- Disease resistance: Selecting disease-resistant varieties reduces the need for chemical treatments.
- Marketability: The demand for specific types and colors of roses affects the choice of varieties.
- Location: Proximity to markets or transportation hubs can influence the choice of varieties that can tolerate longer post-harvest handling.
## Types of Roses Grown in Kenya
### 1. Hybrid Teas
- Characteristics: Upright, vigorous plants with large, double blooms
- Notable varieties: Chrysler Imperial, Crimson Glory, Peace
### 2. Floribunda
- Characteristics: Bushy, compact plants with clusters of smaller, double blooms
- Notable varieties: Iceberg, Bonica, Queen Elizabeth
### 3. Grandiflora
- Characteristics: A hybrid between hybrid teas and floribundas, with large, double blooms borne on strong stems
- Notable varieties: Queen of Hearts, Madame Antoine Meilland
### 4. Miniature
- Characteristics: Small, compact plants with tiny, double blooms
- Notable varieties: The Fairy, Starina, Wee Willie Winkie
### 5. Patio and Border Roses
- Characteristics: Smaller, compact plants suitable for containers or small gardens
- Notable varieties: Knock Out, Easy Elegance, Drift
### 6. Climbing Roses
- Characteristics: Vigorous plants with long, arching canes that need support
- Notable varieties: New Dawn, Eden, Mermaid
### 7. Shrub Roses
- Characteristics: Loose, informal plants that are often used as ground covers or in naturalized areas
- Notable varieties: Knock Out, Carefree Beauty, The Fairy