Question
What issues would there be growing roses on the California Coast where there is not too much rain?

Answer
Hi, Elaine--as long as you can ensure water from some other source, it should be fine.  Soaker hoses work well, as well as drip emitters (check out DripWorks.com).  We have some awfully long dry hot spells here in Memphis, so sometimes I have to run my hoses 3 times a week.  I invested in a timer a couple of years ago that would turn the hoses on and off--a must if you have to be away for a few days!

For more information, check out the American Rose Society at www.ars.org.  There are lots of friendly folks on the rose forums at GardenWeb.com, and you can always reach me here!
Margarett in Memphis