Thomasville rose growers battle severe drought conditions ahead of annual Rose Festival

Thomasville rose growers are battling severe drought conditions to prepare their blooms for the 105th Rose Festival and Queen of Show competition. With the 105th Rose Festival just weeks away, one of the biggest draws is the Rose Show. In Thomasville, the self-proclaimed Rose Capital of the South, the event is no small thing.

This year, growers are dealing with something extra. Currently, 96% of Georgia is under drought conditions, and Thomas County is among the hardest hit.

“This year we’re in a drought, so we’re really having to take extra care of our roses to make sure they get at least one inch of water per week. We’re trying to spray for different things, and with the winds as bad as they are, we’re having to go out early in the morning and do that kind of thing,” Joanne Maxheimer said.

UGA Extension says roses that have not been getting at least one inch of water a week are likely stressed, and newer plants may not have made it at all. Maxheimer, the co-president of the Thomasville Rose Society, says these growers know their roses, and a drought is not going to stop them from competing.