Roses need both moisture and high levels of sun to thrive. Temperate climates have been particularly suitable because they provide sunny summers to promote flowering, plenty of rain for growth and cold dry winters to kill off diseases. Climate change is altering this balance as it is causing more prolonged periods of both heat and drought, as well as very wet conditions which can impact on rose health.

This chapter of the National Trust’s climate change adaptation guidance looks at the likely impacts of climate change on rose gardens and explores potential adaptation options.