It really depends on the variety. I tend to go a little less sun when I can. Tampa Bay here. Containers need more watering as a rule. I have seen roses have steam coming from root balls before especially if they are in pots. I would say morning sun is best, followed by late afternoon sun. Full afternoon sun can be asking for trouble. The smaller the rose / mini's etc. the less sun I give them. No science behind it ...it is just what works for me. I live in St. Pete and grow around 500 roses. Wish I could be of more help tho.

So none of youe roses are in full sun? I know mine do better with less sun, but it goes counter to the FAQ that state 8-10 hours of full sun as being ideal.

I am in GA, close to Tallahassee and my roses that are doing the best get sun in the morning until about 10:30, then shade until about 4pm then sun again. The ones getting the most sun look the worst. They are planted along my fenceline and are not trhiving like the others.

particentral, isn't that interesting? Maybe since we are so far south, the "more full sun the better" statement doesn't apply to us. I found this true with hot peppers as well.

If I add up all the hours of sun they get at least 6-7 hours, just not in the hottest part of the day. I found it rather odd but they are thriving and growing like crazy, so I wont argue it with them! I plan on leaving them right there next year! trhe fencline roses though are still looking sad. I may have to replace them with Knockouts. COme to think of it though, the knockouts that are in FULL sun all day are not doing as well as my hybrid teas. My landscaper didnt get it either....

Odd as I moved all my full sun potted roses to the west side fence line and within 2-3 days they look like they are breaking new basal growth and the leaves are regaining their lost vigor.

I discovered that when leaving on vacation and putting some of my potted roses in a shady area (so they would be near sprinklers) that they came alive. All of my lavendar roses are in areas of about 2-3 hours of sun a day. Those are on fortuniana in the ground. It doesn't seem to matter whether it is morning or afternoon. They are absolutely thriving. I have about 6 potted roses, all colors under the eaves and new life is sprouting on all of them. They love it.
Nancy