Alta Gardening

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"Old Roses" Convey Time Honored Tradition
by Simonetta Jensen
http://www.rosesabc.com

The practice of caring for rose bushes was very popular in
the 18th Century. Many a young man back then resorted to
offering these beautiful flowers as a gift during courtship.
These "old roses" are still beautiful to admire and very
fragrant. They also hold a symbolic gesture that is often
unspoken among admirers. Many "old roses" are hardy shrubs
that require very little tending unless you want a
professional gardener's level of perfection.

"Old roses" are mostly hardy bushes or climbers that were
very popular in the Victorian age. First introduced from
areas of Greece and Persia, these Victorian roses are still
enjoyed in the modern day garden. Some experts speculate
that "old roses" were reportedly in gardens as far back as
the 15th Century. Since "old roses" grow well in many
climate zones, they don't require the close attention of
many hybrid roses.

To begin selecting an "old rose" for your garden, look over
the plant's tending requirements and arrange those roses
accordingly. For example, some old roses grow low to cover
beds while others are bushy and line up as hedges. The
climbers first look like a small bush then work to climb up
fences, patios and the sides of homes. Sunlight, shading,
insects and drainage are some factors to consider when
picking an "old rose". For proper sunlight, most "old
roses" need at least 5 hours of direct sunlight. However,
low mossy "old roses" need more shade than sunlight.
Insects and debris, like weeds, leaves or rose petals, can
make roses look ragged or mil-dewy if not removed in time.
Many organic fertilizers and proper soil preparations can
prevent damage and disease. Always prune to remove
deadheads (dead rose blooms) since rose bushes waste too
much energy trying to fix deadheads.

The most popular garden plant is the rose; the "old rose"
tea rose is the most popular of all roses. Below is a list
of some popular "old roses" and their best qualities:

~ Tea roses are climbers or shrubs that come in a large
variety of colors (light pink to multi-color). They convey
"I'll remember you always".
~ Damask roses are low to the ground shrubs with big
fragrant flowers that are usually deep red and found in
clusters. Color also varies from white to deep pink. They
convey "beauty ever new".
~ Mosses roses are usually low bed shrubs or climbers (like
Centrifolia) with tiny roses that leave behind a scent on
your hand. Color is usually deep crimson to light pink.
They convey "confession of love".

Roses are best trimmed when in full bloom. To live by 18th
Century traditions and convey the message of gratitude, they
should be presented in a bouquet. To learn more about "old
rose" or "old garden rose" varieties and tips on growing
great roses, refer to the American Rose Society.

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