Rose Drift Apricot
Rosa 'Meimirrote'Rosa ‘Apricot Drift’ is a groundcover rose that combines the elegance of traditional roses with the practicality of a compact, easy-to-grow shrub. This low-growing variety reaches about 1–2 feet in height and spreads 2–3 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, container plantings, or as an ornamental groundcover. Its rich apricot-colored flowers create a warm and inviting aesthetic, and the compact nature of the plant makes it a versatile addition to a variety of landscape designs.
From late spring through fall, Apricot Drift Rose produces an abundance of semi-double, apricot-colored blooms above its glossy, dark green foliage. The flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators like honey bees and butterflies, adding both beauty and ecological value to your garden. As the flowers fade, the plant continues to look attractive with its rich green foliage and low, mounding form, which provides continuous interest throughout the growing season.
This rose variety is not only known for its beauty, but also for its disease resistance and low-maintenance care. Apricot Drift is highly resistant to common rose problems like black spot, mildew, and rust, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a rose with minimal upkeep. It is also drought-tolerant once established, and it thrives in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained.
Planting: Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Plant Apricot Drift in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to encourage vibrant blooms. Space plants about 2 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth habit.
Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish deep, strong roots. Once established, Apricot Drift is moderately drought-tolerant but will bloom more profusely with consistent watering. Be sure to water deeply during dry spells but avoid wetting the foliage to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
Pruning: Prune in early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood and to shape the plant. Since Apricot Drift has a naturally tidy form, only light pruning is needed to maintain its compact growth habit. You can also deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to encourage further flowering.
Pest Control: This rose variety is resistant to many common rose diseases, including black spot, mildew, and rust. However, aphids or spider mites can occasionally be a problem, and these can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water. Deer and rabbits typically avoid roses due to their thorns.
Soil Tips: Apricot Drift grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0). It is adaptable to different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Adding organic matter or compost to the soil will improve drainage and encourage healthy growth.