Rose Cultivation in Turkey: A Florist Guide
Turkey has a rich tradition of rose cultivation, particularly in the famous "Valley of Roses" in Isparta province. The country is renowned for producing some of the world's finest rose oil and rose water, making it a significant player in the global rose industry. This florist guide covers the essential aspects of cultivating roses in Turkey's unique climate and conditions.
Climate and Geographic Considerations
Turkey's diverse climate zones offer excellent opportunities for rose cultivation. The Mediterranean and continental climate regions are particularly suitable, with the Isparta-Burdur region being the heart of Turkish rose production. The ideal conditions include:
Temperature: Moderate temperatures with cold winters (necessary for dormancy) and warm, dry summers
Rainfall: 400-600mm annually, with most precipitation in winter and spring
Altitude: 1,000-1,200 meters above sea level (optimal for oil-bearing roses)
Soil: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soils with pH 7.0-8.0
Varieties Suitable for Turkey
Rosa damascena (Damask Rose) The primary variety grown for essential oil production, particularly the 'Trigintipetala' cultivar. This variety is well-adapted to Turkey's continental climate and produces the famous Turkish rose oil.
Rosa gallica Hardy variety suitable for various regions, often used for decorative purposes and rose hip production.
Garden Roses Modern hybrid tea roses, floribundas, and shrub roses can be successfully grown in Turkey's milder coastal regions and urban gardens.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Choose locations with morning sun and good air circulation while protecting from strong winds. The soil should be prepared several months before planting by incorporating organic matter such as well-rotted manure or compost. Turkish soils often benefit from additional organic matter due to their mineral-rich but sometimes heavy nature.
Test soil pH and adjust if necessary. Most Turkish soils are naturally alkaline, which suits roses well, but extremely alkaline soils may require some acidification with organic matter.
Planting Guidelines
Timing: Plant bare-root roses in late autumn (November) or early spring (March) when the soil is workable but plants are still dormant.
Spacing:
Commercial oil roses: 1.5-2 meters between plants
Garden roses: 60-90cm depending on variety
Allow adequate spacing for air circulation
Planting Depth: Plant with the graft union at soil level or slightly below in colder regions.
Irrigation Management
Turkey's dry summers require careful water management. Implement these practices:
Deep, infrequent watering: Water thoroughly but less frequently to encourage deep root development
Drip irrigation: Highly recommended for commercial operations to conserve water and reduce disease
Mulching: Use organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Timing: Water early morning to reduce evaporation and disease risk
Fertilization Program
Turkish soils are generally fertile but may require supplementation:
Spring (March-April):
Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or well-rotted manure
Add phosphorus if soil tests indicate deficiency
Growing Season (May-July):
Monthly applications of balanced liquid fertilizer
Side-dress with compost mid-season
Fall (September):
Apply potassium-rich fertilizer to improve winter hardiness
Avoid nitrogen after late summer to prevent tender growth
Pruning Techniques
Commercial Oil Roses:
Light pruning to maintain productive wood
Remove dead, diseased, and crossing branches
Prune after harvest (typically June-July)
Garden Roses:
Major pruning in late winter (February-March)
Remove dead wood and thin overcrowded centers
Cut back hybrid teas by one-third to one-half
Pest and Disease Management
Common issues in Turkish rose cultivation include:
Diseases:
Powdery mildew (manage with proper spacing and air circulation)
Black spot (use resistant varieties and avoid overhead watering)
Rust (ensure good drainage and air movement)
Pests:
Aphids (encourage beneficial insects or use insecticidal soap)
Rose chafer beetles (hand removal or targeted treatments)
Spider mites (more common in hot, dry conditions)
Implement integrated pest management focusing on cultural practices, beneficial insects, and targeted treatments only when necessary.
Harvesting
For Essential Oil Production:
Harvest early morning when oil content is highest
Pick flowers just before full bloom
Handle gently to avoid bruising petals
Process immediately for best quality
For Cut Flowers:
Cut in early morning or late evening
Choose buds that are just beginning to open
Place stems immediately in water
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring (March-May):
Pruning, fertilizing, planting
Begin regular watering schedule
Monitor for early pest issues
Summer (June-August):
Harvesting oil roses
Intensive irrigation management
Deadheading garden roses
Pest and disease monitoring
Fall (September-November):
Reduce watering
Apply winter fertilizer
Clean up fallen leaves
Begin winter preparation
Winter (December-February):
Dormant season care
Planning for next year
Equipment maintenance
Soil preparation for new plantings
Commercial Considerations
For those interested in commercial rose production in Turkey:
Research local cooperatives and processing facilities
Understand market requirements for oil quality
Consider organic certification opportunities
Plan for significant initial investment and 3-4 year establishment period
Maintain relationships with local agricultural extension services
Sustainability Practices
Turkish rose cultivation benefits from sustainable approaches:
Water conservation through efficient irrigation
Integrated pest management to reduce chemical inputs
Soil health maintenance through organic matter additions
Native beneficial insect habitat preservation
Traditional knowledge integration with modern techniques
Rose cultivation in Turkey combines centuries of traditional knowledge with modern agricultural practices. Success requires attention to the specific climatic conditions, proper variety selection, and consistent care throughout the growing season. Whether growing for commercial oil production or garden beauty, roses can thrive in Turkey's diverse agricultural landscape with proper planning and management.
