How to Choose A Rose
There is an astounding array of rose plants available in almost every
conceivable combination of characteristics. Nearly two hundred and fifty
different roses. Don't be overwhelmed by the large number; once you've
decided on the characteristics you want in a rose, the list becomes more
manageable.
Characteristics to Consider
When you are making your choice, there are a number of questions to ask
yourself: How much time will I have to care for the plants? How much
winter protection will they need in my climate? Is fragrance an
important criterion? Do I want color in the garden or flowers to cut for
indoor arrangements? Will different shades of color go together as well
as I think?
Maintenance
All roses need some care, but certain ones need substantially less than
others. On page 107 is a list of roses that can thrive with a minimum of
care. If you wish to explore beyond this listing, pick varieties that
are particularly disease resistant. That way you won't have to worry
about being eternally vigilant about the control and prevention of
disease. To reduce maintenance, be sure to give the plants described as
vigorous ample room to grow; otherwise you'll always need to have your
pruning clippers at the ready.
Disease resistance
The particular resistance—or susceptibility—of a plant to some or
all diseases is noted in the Encyclopedia of Roses beginning on page 71.
Resistant roses may be attacked, but it's unlikely they will develop the
disease. Plants that are described as being susceptible, or that have no
notation about resistance, will not necessarily succumb to disease,
although you probably should take precautions.
Certain diseases are often concentrated in certain areas. Talk to
friends and neighbors who grow roses about their experiences to
determine whether a particular disease is troublesome in your area. Or
seek the counsel of your local rose society members.
Climate
Find out what the usual coldest winter temperatures are in your area. In
severe winter climates you will need to provide some protection for
roses, but even if you plan to protect them, don't choose plants
described as very tender—that is, unable to withstand freezing
temperatures. Some roses perform well where summers are hot and dry,
others where summers are hot and humid, or cool.
Fragrance
Most people who pause to admire a rose will first lean over and take a
sniff. If the rose is fragrant, the enjoyment seems to be complete. If
fragrance is a large part of your pleasure in roses, there are many
roses you can choose from. 'Chrysler Imperial' and 'Fragrant Cloud', two
very popular hybrid teas, are exceptionally fragrant; among the old
roses, many of the damasks are noted for their fragrance.
Cut flowers
You'll probably want to cut some of your flower
s and bring them inside to enjoy. (See pages 66 and 67 for procedures to
assure their longevity.) All roses can be picked for indoor
arrangements, but hybrid teas and grandifloras are favored for formal
arrangements because of their long, straight stems.
Colors
Remember that within any one color classification, such as red or gold,
there is a wide range of intensity and quality of color, When
juxtaposing or blending different colors, make sure that the shades you
choose will give the effect you desire.
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