For centuries
roses have carried a certain mystique. They are a
symbol for love, Valentine’s Day, and are used
in weddings, and for anniversaries. Their scent is
a delicate fragrance that lets a passer-by stop
and take notice. Colors vary and several varieties
even have two or three shades in one bloom. Roses
can be a creamy, delicate white all the way to a
velvety, ruby red. Some varieties even have blue,
orange, and “pearl”. Mixing varieties and
colors adds added delight and beauty to any
garden, patio, or outdoor spot.
Putting roses along a pathway or by a door gives
visitors an aromatic, beautiful way to enter your
home. They will inevitably stop and smell the
roses.
Planting and growing roses is discussed in garden
books, magazines, and on television shows. What is
the best way to have plants that are hardy, and
bloom with bouquet value flowers?
Roses grow best in a location that is protected
from north and east winds. They do need sun but
partial shade does not deter their growth. The
soil should be well-drained because one cause of
loss of plant is a “swamp” subsoil. The soil
itself should be a good blend - not too much sand
nor too heavy of a base. Using compost will
improve soil quality and should be worked into the
soil to distribute it evenly.
The way you first plant your rose bushes is also
of paramount importance. The commonest mistake is
planting them too high. The crown of your plant
should be covered with about 1-1/2 inches of soil.
While planting too shallow is a problem so is
planting too deep. A happy medium will insure
proper plant growth. Fall planting is preferred to
spring planting. After the first killing frost,
mount soil around the plant for protection.
Rose plants should be pruned before planting and
every year. Pruning is best done in early Spring.
Follow-up care with careful note of disease or
insect infestation will allow you beautiful blooms
and healthy plants year after year. If a problem
occurs, treat it as quickly as possible. Also
deadhead any dead flowers or faded blooms. This
gives added strength and vitality to new growth.
A bouquet of roses in varying colors from your
very own garden will take their breath away. Their
scent will fill your home and their beauty will be
noticed by everyone who
has the opportunity to see them. Try growing roses
and you will be most pleasantly rewarded.
ENJOY !
©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 May
About the Author
Arleen M. Kaptur has written numerous articles,
cookbooks, and the novel:
SEARCHING FOR AUSTIN JAMES
Websites:
http://www.arleenssite.com
http://www.Arleens-RusticLiving.com
http://www.webspawner.com/users/rusticliving.index.html
http://topica.com/lists.simpleliving
