Let's chinwag about the importance of pruning roses. I'm here to tell you, that roses are an incredibly hardy bunch! No need to be shy about giving them a good prune; you'd be hard-pressed to make a blunder they couldn't bounce back from. Even if pruning roses feels a bit drastic, as long as it's done at the right moment with a sturdy pair of ratchet secateurs, it'll encourage a right royal flush of blooms and give your roses a smart, neat look. I've personally taken mature hybrid tea roses down to a few inches above the base, and you know what? They returned the favour with a grand display of blooming marvellous beauty the following year. So, don't be afraid to dive into pruning - with each passing season, you'll become more and more deft at it.
Identifying the Type of Rose and the Right Time to Prune
The rose variety will dictate the optimal time for pruning. For instance, hybrid tea roses, which predominantly bloom on new growth, should ideally be pruned in early spring or late winter, just before growth begins. On the other hand, patio roses or rambling roses, which flower off older wood, should be pruned after flowering in late summer.
The Best Time for Pruning Hybrid Tea Roses:
Late winter or early spring, around late February through March. However, always be attentive to your local climate and weather conditions, as a late frost could potentially damage newly pruned stems.
The Best Time for Pruning Floribunda Roses:
Late winter or early spring, typically around late February to early March, The exact timing can vary based on local climate conditions.
The Best Time for Pruning Climbing Roses:
Late winter around February to March, the exact timing may vary depending on local climate and growing conditions. Always watch for signs of new growth and adjust your pruning schedule accordingly.
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Late summer, around August, after they have finished flowering. However, be aware that timing can depend heavily on your local climate and weather conditions.
Understanding Which Stems to Prune
Your main target should be dead, diseased, and damaged stems, as well as any rubbing branches which could encourage disease. Stems with woody, old growth that hasn't produced any new shoots in the growing season are also prime candidates for pruning.
Implementing Light Pruning vs Major Pruning
A rule of thumb is to remove one-third to one-half of the plant's overall growth. Light pruning involves removing only a small amount of the plant, focusing on dead wood and diseased stems; it is typically done on older stems and encourages flowering on the remaining canes. Major pruning, on the other hand, is an extensive cutback of the branches, which encourages vigorous spring growth on plants like hybrid tea and shrub roses.
The Pruning Process
You may begin by removing any dead branches and twiggy stems and cutting them back to the main canes. Then, prune the remaining canes at a 45-degree angle, just above an outward-facing bud eye, to encourage an open vase shape. This angle helps water run off and prevents cane borers. Branches that cross or crowd one another should also be removed to maintain the open shape. After pruning, seal the cut with white glue to prevent disease.
Post Pruning Care
After your pruning is finished, ensure that you clean up and dispose of the pruned plant material to prevent the harbouring of pests or diseases. With time, patient care, and adherence to these basic principles, your rose bushes should reward you with a grand display of blooming marvellous beauty the following year.
Remember, every rose plant is unique, so it's best to tailor your pruning to its unique growth habits and flowering schedule. Happy pruning!
Understanding the Difference between Rambling Roses and Climbing Roses
It's important to grasp the difference between rambling roses and climbing roses to make the right choice for your garden.
- Rambling roses are known for their robust and energetic growth, often producing a plethora of small flowers in spray-like formations. They usually have one blooming season per year, typically finishing their display in the summer.
- Climbing roses, while less vigorous, offer a longer blooming period, continuing to flower until the end of the summer and sometimes into autumn. Their flowers are typically larger, more shapely and single, providing a distinctly different spectacle compared to ramblers.
Understanding these differences will enable you to tailor your pruning and care for these roses, ensuring a stunning display throughout their blooming seasons.
Understanding the difference between a Hybrid Tea Rose and a Floribunda Rose?
- Floribunda Roses: Think of these as your 'power bloomers'. The name 'Floribunda' comes from Latin and means 'many flowers'. And they sure live up to their name! From summer till late autumn, they just keep popping out clusters of flowers. They might not smell as sweet as the Hybrid Tea roses, but they sure are tough cookies. They're more resistant to diseases and are easier to take care of.
- Hybrid Tea Roses: These are the 'beauty queens' of the rose world. Each stem has a single, elegant flower, perfectly shaped and held high on slender stems. They're great for adding a touch of elegance to your bouquets. You can look forward to their beauty in three waves, from summer till late autumn. They might be a bit high-maintenance with their need for more winter care and they don't have a lot of leaves, but their beauty makes them totally worth it!
What are Bush Roses?
Often seen as the classic garden rose, bush roses are a diverse group that includes Hybrid Teas and Floribundas. They typically grow to waist height and boast a wide range of colours, petal shapes and fragrances. The bushy growth habit and prolific flowering make them ideal for borders, providing a stunning display from summer until late autumn.
The Journey of Roses to the United Kingdom
Origins and Early History of Roses
Roses, with their unparalleled beauty and fragrance, have a history dating back millions of years. Fossils discovered in North America suggest that wild roses existed there about 35 million years ago. Moreover, Sumerian clay tablets from around 3000 BC record the use of roses for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, indicating that humans have appreciated these flowers for millennia.
The cultivation of roses, however, began in Asia about 5,000 years ago. Eventually, they spread across the ancient world, gracing the gardens of Persia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The Romans, in particular, had a fondness for roses, using them in celebrations, as medicine, and even as a form of currency.
The Rose's Journey to the United Kingdom
The rose’s journey to the United Kingdom began with the Romans. When they invaded Britain in 43 AD, they brought many of their beloved plants, including roses. The Romans introduced the Rosa Gallica, a vibrant red rose, to Britain. This rose, known as the "Apothecary's Rose," would later become a staple in medieval monastic gardens for its medicinal properties.
In the centuries that followed, more rose varieties made their way to Britain, often introduced by returning crusaders, explorers, or botanists. The Rosa Damascena, or Damask rose, was reportedly brought to Europe by returning Crusaders in the 13th century, and the Rosa x alba, or white rose, was cultivated in the Middle East and introduced into England around the same time.
Roses in the Victorian Era: The Birth of the UK's Love Affair with Roses
The true love affair between Britons and roses, however, began in the Victorian era. Queen Victoria was an avid gardener, and her passion for roses ignited the same in her subjects. The Industrial Revolution, with its improvements in transportation and communication, facilitated the import of exotic roses from the far corners of the British Empire, further enhancing the rose’s popularity.
It was during this period that hybridisations began in earnest, leading to many of the modern rose varieties we see today. Breeders sought to create roses with the best characteristics of their parents: the hardiness and repeat-flowering nature of the Old Roses with the diverse colours of the Tea roses. 1875 saw the creation of the first Hybrid Tea Rose, 'La France,' which combined the best of both worlds.
Roses in the Modern United Kingdom
Today, roses occupy a special place in the hearts of the British. They are a staple in gardens across the UK, with a variety of species and hybrids adorning public and private spaces. The Royal National Rose Society, established in 1876, continues to promote the cultivation and appreciation of roses. Moreover, the annual RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival's Rose Show stands as a testament to the enduring love Britons have for roses.
In conclusion, the rose's journey to the UK and its subsequent development into one of the nation's favourite flowers is a tale of romance, beauty, and evolution. Through centuries of cultivation, the rose has become more than just a flower in the UK; it is a symbol of love, passion, and resilience, deeply rooted in the nation's history and culture.
List of Established Quality Breeders and Suppliers of Potted and Bare-Root Roses.
David Austin Roses: A Brief History (UK)
www.davidaustinroses.co.uk.
David Austin Roses holds a prominent place in the horticultural landscape of the United Kingdom, and indeed the world. Established in 1969, David Austin, an enthusiastic rose breeder, began with a simple goal: to create a more vibrant and fragrant alternative to traditional hybrid tea roses. By crossing old garden roses with modern hybrid teas and floribundas, he crafted roses with the forms and fragrances of old roses but with the repeat-flowering ability and wide colour range of modern roses. This pioneering work resulted in a collection of stunning English Roses, which are celebrated globally for their exceptional beauty, exquisite fragrance, and unparalleled versatility in the garden. Today, the legacy of David Austin Roses continues, endearing generations of gardeners and rose lovers worldwide with its exquisite and diverse selection of roses.
Peter Beales Roses: A Brief History (UK)
www.classicroses.co.uk
Peter Beales Roses, established in 1968 in Norfolk, UK, is globally acclaimed for its extensive selection of classic and contemporary roses. Peter Beales, the founder, was a passionate advocate for the preservation of old varieties of roses, earning him recognition as one of the world's leading rose growers. His tireless efforts resulted in preserving many endangered old roses, including gallicas, damasks, albas, and ramblers from extinction. Today, Peter Beales Roses continues to enchant gardeners and rose enthusiasts worldwide with their unparalleled variety of roses, from old and rare species to modern hybrids, all known for their exquisite beauty and aroma.
Harkness Roses: A Brief History (UK)
www.roses.co.uk
Harkness Roses, based in Hertfordshire, England, is a longstanding pillar in the world of rose cultivation with history etched back to 1879. Founded by brothers John and Robert Harkness, the nursery has been dedicated to crafting beautiful, high-quality roses for over 140 years. Through the generations, the Harkness family has introduced a multitude of new, hybrid varieties to the rose community, each celebrated for their extraordinary beauty, vibrant colours, and enticing fragrances. Their creations include popular favourites such as 'Ena Harkness', known to be amongst the best-selling red hybrid tea roses worldwide. Today, Harkness Roses continuesmany of their beloved plants, including roses to uphold their reputation for excellence, offering an extensive collection of roses through their online platform and at their nursery, captivating the hearts of rose enthusiasts globally.
Pococks Roses: A Brief History (UK)
www.pococksroses.co.uk
Established in 1984, Pococks Roses is a family-run nursery located in the heart of the UK, known for its exceptional range of quality roses. The founder, Geoffrey Pocock, brought his passion and expertise in rose cultivation to the forefront, striving to provide robust, beautiful roses to gardens across Britain. Over the years, Pococks Roses has distinguished itself with its commitment to sustainable growing practices and a diverse variety of roses. Today, the nursery continues to thrive, offering a wide array of roses online and at their nurseries in Hampshire and Cornwall.
Apuldram Roses: A Brief History (UK)
www.apuldramroses.co.uk
Apuldram Roses, nestled in the lush countryside of West Sussex, has been a distinguished name in the world of rose cultivation since its establishment in the 1980s. It was founded by rose enthusiasts who sought to provide a stunning array of high-quality, British-grown roses. This family-run business is acclaimed for its extensive selection of roses, each embodying exceptional beauty and robustness. Today, Apuldram Roses continues to enchant rose lovers worldwide with its offerings, available online and at their charming nursery.
Style Roses: A Brief History (UK)
www.styleroses.co.uk
Style Roses, a reputable family-run rose nursery based in South Lincolnshire, was established in the 1990s. It was created with an unwavering dedication to offering British-grown, top-quality roses that exude beauty and resilience in equal measure. The founders, known for their lifelong passion for roses, are committed to cultivating a wide variety of roses, each representing a unique blend of charm and strength. They focused on delivering roses that not only added aesthetic appeal to gardens but also thrived in the British climate. Style Roses has since grown significantly and continues to deliver on its promise of quality and beauty with every rose. Today, roses from Style Roses grace many gardens across the UK and beyond, available through their user-friendly online platform and at their well-stocked nursery in Lincolnshire.
Poulsen Roser: A Brief History (Danish)
www.poulsenroser.com
Poulsen Roser, a family-owned Danish company, has been inspiring garden enthusiasts worldwide with their innovative rose creations since 1878. The company was founded by Dines Poulsen, who made a significant impact on rose breeding by creating the first Polyantha hybrid. Poulsen Roser stands out for its relentless dedication to quality, producing roses that are renowned for their beauty, resilience, and wide range of colours. Today the firm continues its commitment to excellence, providing roses that enrich gardens and landscapes across the globe.
Meilland Richardier: A Brief History (French)
www.meilland.com
Meilland Richardier, a renowned French rose company, has been at the forefront of rose breeding and cultivation since its inception in 1850. Founded by Antoine Meilland, the company has become legendary in the world of roses, introducing over 1,000 new varieties to date. The Meilland family’s most famous rose, 'Peace', was bred during World War II and is seen as a symbol of hope and peace worldwide. Today, Meilland Richardier is recognized globally for its dedication to quality, innovation, and the beauty of its creations. Its reputation extends far beyond France's borders, offering a plethora of exquisite roses through its online platform and at its nursery, enchanting rose lovers around the world.
Georges Delbard Roses: A Brief History (French)
www.georgesdelbard.com
Georges Delbard, a distinguished French company, has been shaping the world of roses since its establishment in 1935. The firm was initiated by Georges Delbard himself, who held a profound passion for the beauty and versatility of roses. It has since introduced countless exceptional rose varieties, which are celebrated for their vibrant colours, delightful fragrances, and superior quality. Today, Georges Delbard continues its tradition of excellence, offering a stunning array of roses through its online platform and delighting rose enthusiasts worldwide.
Tantau Roses: A Brief History (German)
www.rosen-tantau.com
Founded in 1906 by Mathias Tantau, Rosen Tantau is a prestigious German company, globally respected for its innovative rose cultivation. Starting as a small-scale nursery, it has grown to become one of the leading breeders of cut roses, with its varieties being grown in over 50 countries. The company's most famous creation, the 'Queen Elizabeth' rose, has become a standard in modern rose breeding. Today, through its user-friendly online platform, Tantau Roses continues to share its love for roses, offering a diverse range of exquisite roses to enthusiasts worldwide.
Kordes Roses: A Brief History (German)
www.kordes-rosen.com
Founded by Wilhelm Kordes in 1887, Kordes Roses is a renowned German rose breeding company, celebrated for its innovative and high-quality roses. The company's creation, 'Crimson Glory,' is revered as one of the most fragrant roses ever bred. Today, Kordes Roses remains committed to breeding roses that are both beautiful and resistant to disease, offering a diverse catalogue of roses to consumers via its user-friendly online platform.
Roses of Yesterday and Today: A Brief History (USA)
www.rosesofyesterday.com
Founded by Francis E. Lester in the 1930s, Roses of Yesterday and Today is a famed nursery in Watsonville, California, with an illustrious history. Francis, a passionate rosarian, is celebrated for his contributions to rose breeding, particularly his creation of the 'Lester Rose Gardens' which housed a diverse collection of old and new rose varieties. His wife, Willa, took over the business after his demise and continued to uphold his passion for roses. Today, Roses of Yesterday and Today continues to charm rose lovers with its unique collection of antique and rare roses, available through its interactive online platform.
UK Rose Plant Associations
The Royal National Rose Society (RNRS) - www.rnrs.org.uk
The society, established in 1876, is dedicated to encouraging, improving, and extending the science, art, and practice of rose growing.
The British Rose Growers Association (BRGA) - www.brga.org.uk
Formed in 1915, the BRGA represents the interests of professional rose growers across the UK.
The Rose Society UK - www.therosesociety.org.uk
Founded in 2015, this society is committed to promoting the growth and showing of roses at all levels.
The Historic Roses Group - www.historicroses.org
This group, founded in 1990, is devoted to identifying, conserving, and fostering the appreciation of historic roses.
