Best Roses to Grow in Massachusetts
Massachusetts spans USDA Zones 5–7, typically Zone 6. We've broken out 55 rose varieties by zone — pick your zone below or find the right varieties for your specific part of the state.
Varieties
55
for Massachusetts
USDA
Zones 5–7
155–210 days season
Beginner
18
easy to grow
Heirloom
8
heritage varieties
Massachusetts in USDA Zones 5–7
Massachusetts spans Zones 5–7. Variety lists below are organized by zone — start with your zone for the most accurate recommendations.
Growing Roses in Massachusetts
Zone 6 offers excellent conditions for rose growing, with its moderate climate providing enough chill hours for proper dormancy while avoiding the harsh extremes that can damage tender varieties. The 180-day growing season from mid-April to mid-October gives roses ample time to establish strong root systems and produce multiple bloom cycles. However, Zone 6 gardeners must choose varieties that can handle temperature swings and occasional late spring frosts that can nip early growth.
The key to success in Zone 6 is selecting roses with proven cold hardiness and disease resistance. Hybrid teas like Double Delight and Mister Lincoln thrive here, while English roses such as Abraham Darby and Graham Thomas offer exceptional fragrance and repeat blooming. Shrub roses like the Knock Out series and rugosas provide bulletproof performance with minimal maintenance. These varieties have been tested in Zone 6 conditions and consistently deliver beautiful blooms while surviving winter temperatures that can dip to -10°F.
Zone 6 Roses for Massachusetts★ Most of MA
55 varieties · Last frost April 15 · 180-day season
Zone 5 Roses for Massachusetts
55 varieties · Last frost April 30 · 155-day season
Zone 7 Roses for Massachusetts
55 varieties · Last frost April 1 · 210-day season
Zone 6 Growing Tips for Massachusetts
Plant bare root roses in Zone 6 during early spring, typically 2-3 weeks before the last frost date around late March to early April. This timing allows roots to establish before the April 15th average last frost while the soil is still cool and workable. Container roses can be planted safely from late April through early fall, but avoid planting after mid-September to give plants time to harden off before winter.
Choose a location with 6-8 hours of morning sun and good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases that thrive in Zone 6's humid summers. Plant in well-draining soil amended with compost, as Zone 6's clay soils often retain too much moisture. Mulch heavily around the base in late November with 4-6 inches of shredded leaves or bark to protect the graft union from freeze-thaw cycles that are common in this zone's variable winter weather.