All About Roses

Who hasn't heard of the most popular flowering plant of all time, the rose? The
rose plant can spark a quick conversation amongst even the shyest of persons.
Almost anyone can tell you of someone they know who has grown beautiful roses
or of someone who couldn't. Almost anyone can tell you of someone who got or
sent roses, especially around the holidays. Even little children know what the
rose plant is.

The local florist most likely has dozens of colors, types, and sizes of rose
plants. It would seem to be the best selling flower of all time. The local
discount store and even the local grocer carries some sort of rose plant these
days.

In my opinion, the best rose is one that has a strong scent. A rose has a most
distinct smell, and a scent welcome to most anyone. The fragrance is like no
other and has been reproduced in perfumes and air fresheners for years. There
are rose-scented oils and lotions, bath products. There are rose colors and
rose images galore. You can find rose parades and people named Rose. You can
even coming out "smelling like a rose". All because of a mere plant that
reached enormous proportions of popularity.

The rose plant is available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and types. It
is known worldwide. The prices vary depending on where you buy or what type and
size you want.

Do you want a rose plant already started in a pot? You may have to repot it.
Make sure you do your homework before you buy one.

When you decide what type of rose plant you'd like, think of placement. There
is a plant called the thornless rose plant that will grow in the shade. But
most rose plants are known to have thorns, so you wouldn't want your small
child or grandchild or frequent tiny visitors to happen upon something that is
so pretty that they can't resist grabbing and end up with an unwelcome handful
of thorns. It may even sour them on the enjoyment of the rose plant for life
because of a tearful memory. And roses are too beautiful to allow such a thing!

There are climbing rose plants which you most certainly wouldn't want trailing
across the ground to be stomped by animals or other foot traffic. Some roses
are delicate and unfiltered light would cook their leaves to an unwelcome
brown. If your rose plant is the type that grows into a bush, you would want to
place it in a spot that allows for it to spread.

Rose plants carry so many different names, it's probably enough to fill a small
book! Some of the names include Rose Blaze, Rose Red Eden, Rose New Dawn, Rose
Neptune, Rose Zephirine, just to name a very few. If you want a rose that
sounds like it belongs in a class all its own, you could buy a Rose Paris
D'Yves St. Laurent! That's a mouthful! Happy Hunting!

Roses And Their Color Meaning

Roses may be the traditional gift given on Valentines Day, but they are
definitely well received any day of the year. Buyer beware before you buy
roses, know what message you are sending in the color. Men as well as women,
express that they love to get flowers and floral gifts. Remember color talks!
Although it is a common acceptance that all roses convey warmth and affection,
the person receiving them may know and understand the meaning of roses colors
and the symbolic message conveyed. It would be nice to assure that you are
communicating the right message to that special person sharing a special
language between the two of you.

The color of a rose can certainly be interpreted than the thought you intended.
To ensure that your love (or friend) understands what the roses you are sending
mean, follow the guide below so you can be sure of no misinterpreted gestures.

Orange -- enthusiasm, desire and fascination

Lavender -- love at first sight

Coral -- desire

Pale Peach -- modesty

Peach -- appreciation, closing of the deal, lets get together, sincerity

Red and Yellow -- jovial and happy feelings

Red and White -- given together these signify unity

Yellow with Red Tip -- friendship, falling in love

Yellow -- Joy, gladness, friendship, delight, promise of a new beginning,
welcome back, remember me, jealousy

Light Pink -- admiration, sympathy, gentleness, grace, gladness, joy, sweetness

Dark Pink -- appreciation, gratitude, thank-you

Pink -- appreciation, thank-you, grace, perfect happiness, admiration,
gentleness, please believe me

White (Bridal) -- happy love

White -- purity, innocence, silence, secrecy, reverance,humilty, youthfulness,
I am worthy of you, Heavenly

Deep Burgundy -- unconscious beauty

Red (single) -- I love you

Red Dark -- unconscious beauty

Red -- love, beauty, courage and respect, romantic love, congratulations, I
love you, job well done, sincere love, respect, courage and passion

Single in any Color -- simplicity, gratitude

Red Rosebud -- symbolic of purity and loveliness

White Rosebud -- symbolic of girlhood

Thornless Rose -- love at first sight

There is also significance and meaning to the number of roses you send which is
interesting also to note.

1 Rose -- Love at first sight! 
2 Roses -- Mutual feelings 
3 Roses -- I Love You! 
7 Roses -- I'm infatuated with you 
9 Roses -- Together as long as we live
10 Roses -- You're Perfect! 
11 Roses -- You're my treasured one 
12 Roses -- Be my steady 
13 Roses -- Forever friends 
15 Roses -- I'm really sorry 
20 Roses -- I'm sincere towards you 
21 Roses -- I'm committed to you 
36 Roses -- I'll remember our romantic moments 
40 Roses -- My love is genuine 
99 Roses -- I'll love you till the day I die 
100 Roses -- I'm totally devoted to you 
101 Roses -- You're my one and only 
108 Roses -- Will you marry me? 
999 Roses -- My love will last till the end of time

Rose Leaves -- In general they are a symbol of hope

Rose talk is the language and trend setting is the game. It does not matter
whether you are shy, trying to convey a suttle message or shouting it from the
stems, saying it with a rose sends a special message. These "body language"
blooms are the most popular of all cut flowers and nothing quite says it like a
rose. Regardless of color, number or stage of growth, rose that are sent every
month conveys "beauty ever new." Regardless if your rose recipient is not
familiar with the shades meaning or number of, one message shouts out loud and
clear. The person that sends roses is a romantic and is saying something very
special!

Designing Your Rose Garden

The use of landscape roses can make the exterior of any house more graceful,
fragrant and inviting. Selecting the right varieties to compliment and accent
the home's style and your vision, will contribute to the success of your
landscape and rose garden design.

Finding the perfect roses for your rose garden is not hard at all because of
the the diverse varieties roses come in. The problem lies in choosing the right
ones for your landscape needs and the design you wish to attain.

Roses come in a number of classes. Each class holds characteristics that make
them a great choice for use as landscape ornamentals. If you'd like to have
roses growing up and over a trellis or archway or cascading from window boxes,
the tall growing tea roses are a perfect choice. Tea roses are known for their
wild growing blooms and all who walk under the archway enjoy a beautiful
display of roses.

If a trellis is not available and you're looking to accent a wall, then choose
a true climbing rose. The beauty of a true climbing rose allows you train the
plant into many different looks and effects. In essence you can train it any
way you want it to grow.

The Floribunda rose is an excellent choice when a vibrant splash of background
color is what you're looking for. The popular Floribunda rose varieties give
all this color in the landscape with their large and breathtaking sprays of
blooms.

The versatile rose can also be used as a ground cover or planted in front of
other plants to give color and accent. They can also be used as stand alone
specimens and trained into a small tree or planted as hedges. Rugosa roses are
a good choice for this. The goal or impact of the rose is not the varieties or
ways it can be grown but the colors they offer in the living gardening palette.
What gardeners want are healthy rose plants that deliver impact in many sizes,
styles, textures, colors and shapes. When considering your design for your rose
garden choose the complimentary colors for your surrounding landscape. A simple
arrangement of pink roses delivers the perfect compliment to a stone or marble
entranceway or drive. White tea roses offer a striking contrast against a dark
red brick home. Roses come in so many colors it should be easy to find colors
which compliment and enhance any decorating or landscape design you come up
with. Designing your rose garden will be exciting and challenging to say the
least. Incorporate your own color favorites and mix styles and textures for an
interesting appeal.

Roses do well in a variety of temperature zones and climates so make sure you
choose the varieties suitable to the area in which you live. This translates
into fewer maintenance issues, less pesticides and disease issues promoting
overall a healthier rose garden.

The Benefits of Rose Shrubs

Although some have the ability to grow quite large, there are shrub roses
smaller than four feet. Many people like to use these shrubs for barriers as
well as for ornamental purposes. Shrubs make beautiful hedges that have a touch
of old-world class for your landscaping. The term 'old-world' is used because
these shrubs have been around for such a long time.

Shrub roses work well for formal or informal landscaping. If you want to
balance your scenery, you could plant shrub roses among herbs. Incidentally,
roses have some of the same uses as herbs.

Shrub roses have a natural ability to resist disease. They'll grow in various
climates and require little maintenance. These qualities make it a friendlier
choice for the person new to gardening.

You may want to plant shrub roses to hide an imperfection on your home or in
your yard. If you have an eyesore that can't be repaired or removed, it may be
a good idea to hide it with the larger shrub roses. It should draw the eye more
towards the plant and less towards the eyesore, or may even hide it completely.

You may not want to plant shrubs in an area where it will be accessible for
passersby to pluck your favored blooms. If you are trying to win the title of
"Yard of the Month", or something similar, placement would definitely matter!
These shrubs in bloom may make it irresistible to passing admirers. Besides
taking the blooms, the flowers could be damaged carelessly by wandering hands.
Bruised blooms would not be a welcome sight to a judge.

The more shrubs you plant, the more beautiful blooms you can enjoy. They would
make it easier to decorate for an event you may want to hold. It would save the
convenience and cost of ordering flowers from someone else. The added benefit
would be the pride of showing something you would have produced yourself. The
shrubs would not only provide beauty, but a fragrance as well, to share with
your guests.

You could use the roses from your shrubs in many ways. Suppose you are crafty,
you could use them in dried flower arrangements. Maybe you want to share them
with your neighbor, or use them for romantic purposes for your spouse( such as
covering the bed or floor with the petals from your very own shrubs). You could
try selling the blooms from your shrubs for corsages. Even a blind friend or
relative could benefit from the sweet, uplifting smell of the roses. Maybe you
are an artist as well as a gardener. You could plant your own shrubs for your
oil, watercolor, or acrylic paintings. Roses have one of the more dominant
scents used for commercial purposes. Planting your own shrubs would give you an
outdoor air freshener that you could also bring inside to show off in vases
placed around a room. The rose scent can be subtle rather than overpowering.
Some roses do have a stronger fragrance than others.

Origin, Sentiment and Care of Red Roses

Through fossil evidence, roses have existed since prehistoric times. In Asian
gardens, more than 5,000 years ago, the first cultivated roses appeared. Roses
were introduced to Europe during the Roman Empire where they were used for
ornamental purposes. According to historians, Cleopatra is said to have
scattered rose petals before Mark Anthony's feet. Nero released roses from the
ceiling during extravagant feasts and banquets that were held.

The rose is the flower emblem of England. According to English folklore, if the
petals fall from a fresh-cut red rose then bad luck was sure to ensue. The red
rose is the badge of the House of Lancaster and the flower of Eros and Cupid.

Exquisite and radiant in every way, the red rose is the principal messenger of
love. A single rose denotes perpetual love. Two roses of any color taped or
wired together signify a commitment or forthcoming marriage. Red Roses are the
most popular flower in expressing love and have been the sentiment of young
gents throughout the world. Making your heartfelt red roses last the longest is
not always easy. After receiving your roses always remove any water vials that
may have been shipped with your roses. These provide only a temporary water
source during delivery and will not keep your roses but for a short period.
However, is it not wise to remove floral wires that may have been attached to
individual rose stems. These provide helpful support for some roses. Remove any
leaves that will be below water, being careful not to scrape or cut through the
green bark of the stems. Air can enter stems at such injuries blocking water
uptake.

Leaves left under water will cause bacteria to develop and will significantly
shorten the life of your roses not to mention the horrid odor that will come
forth. When preparing your vase, always use lukewarm water and be sure to use a
clean container. For best results, include floral preservative if at all
possible. Mix the preservative with room temperature water, in the amount
recommended on the package. Floral preservative provides sugars, balances pH,
and limits bacterial growth.

When preparing your red roses for arrangement, fill a sink or wide container
with several inches of warm water. While holding each stem under water, cut
about one inch diagonally off the end with a sharp knife or shears. Make sure
to place the roses in your container before the stems dry off. Gently remove
any outermost petals that may have been bruised during shipping. Removing a few
petals will not damage a blossom and will often help it open more fully. Just be
careful not to force open or take off healthy petals.

Display your roses in a cool location, out of direct sunlight or drafts. Check
your arrangement daily to make sure it has plenty of clear, fresh water. If the
water appears dirty after a couple of days be sure to replace it completely.

If some roses should start to droop their heads prematurely, it could be due to
air trapped in the stems. Recut the stems underwater as described previously.
Then let the roses float on the water surface with the stem ends below water
and the rose heads in an upright position. In many cases, the roses will revive
and harden within about an hour. It is certainly worth a try to keep your roses
lasting longer. With care, your red roses will bloom quickly and should stay
open anywhere from 5 to 10 days for your enjoyment.

Delicate Rose Care

We've been very blessed with plant breeders who give us roses that grow well in
adverse conditions and bloom basically from early summer to first frost. Proper
plant nutrition is easy and simple to provide with the use of complete plant
food. Plant food supplies all the needed vital elements that is needed from the
soil. Insect and disease problems with your rose care can be prevented easily
with regular use of insecticide-fungicide that controls most chewing insects,
sucking insects, and fungus diseases. Being a successful rose grower is
attainable with these aids and a lot of determination.

Buying good plants or better known as good stock is a must. Preferably No. 1,
two years old, field grown and budded plants. Plants that are not pruned should
have 3 or more heavy 18-inch canes and pruned plants should have canes with a 
diameter of at least 1/4 inch at the top. Plants potted in tar paper pots are 
preferred by many gardeners since they can be transplanted most any time of the 
year.

When planting, select a sunny, well-drained location. Trim off all broken and
bruised roots, cut top growth back to 6 to 8 inches. Dig planting holes at
least 6 inches deeper than needed for the plant roots and make the holes large
enough so the roots will not crowd or bend. Be sure to place a handful of small
rocks or pebbles in the bottom of holes for drainage. Mix 1 tablespoonful of
fertilizer with the soil placed over the drainage material. Cover this mixture
with plain soil, bringing the level to desired planting depth. Make a mound in
the center to receive the plant. Set the plant roots over this mound and spread
roots then fill in with the soil. Firm the soil by pressing tightly 2 or 3 times
while filling the hole.

Rose care and feeding is very important. The first feeding should come in early
spring as soon as leaf buds begin to swell. Clear away the mulch and work plant
food into soil the around the plant. Use 1 rounded tablespoon of fertilizer per
plant unless tea roses in which you would cut that amount in half. Second
feeding should be made at the same rate and immediately following the first
heavy bloom. Third feeding is also at same rate and should be made in late
summer with the exceptions of northern areas not later than August 15. In the
southern areas where blooming extends into October and November, a fourth
feeding is advised about the first of October. Many growers incorporate a
regular monthly feeding in their rose care program during the growing season
with good results. Controlling diseases and insects is easy with the regular
use of chemicals. Chemicals control most fungus diseases and chewing insects.
Regular dusting every week to ten days will make these problems easier to
handle.

When watering, soak the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. Cultivation is a
definite must to eliminate weeds and keep the soil loose. Mulching during the
summer months will eliminate weeds, reduce moisture evaporation and the
necessity of cultivation. Every two to three weeks mulches should be applied
before roses come into bloom.

When pruning, the bush types should be pruned during the early spring when the
leaf buds begin to swell but before the growth starts.

As far as winter is concerned, it's the alternating freezing and thawing that
is destructive to your roses. Winter mulching with straw or peat moss is
recommended with the exception of the extreme southern sections of the United
States. Pull up the soil around each plant to basically 6 inches after the
first frost. Once the ground is frozen, mulch again.

About the Rose Market

It is amazing that something as simple and quietly elegant as the rose, a
simple flower, has such a huge market. Not only in the flower itself, but in
the products, the word itself which sparks stories, poems, and songs, and the
fact that the rose plays an enormous part in romance.

There is an endless array of products and services that center on the
popularity of the rose. It has been long admired by folks from all walks of
life. It sells. It sells on skin as tattoos, in jewelry, in decals, on
clothing, in hair products, bath products, perfumes and deodorizers, on fabric,
room decorations, at funerals, in weddings, at parties, carved into furniture,
in paintings and drawings, even in children's color books, stories, and movies.
Roses are everywhere and anywhere and are a welcome item in an abundance of
shapes, forms, sizes, colors. The rose sells inside, outside, and all
year-round. It sells in rain, sleet, fog, snow, hot or cold weather.

The rose market is an abundant one, to say the least. Any holiday is
appropriate for selling roses. Whoever decided the rose has symbolism according
to its colors provided an outpouring for sales. Naming the roses was another
brilliant idea for the market.

The rose sells itself, although plenty of advertisement goes into the sale of
the rose and its products and by-products.

The rose is a winner whether it is alive or dead. Even the black rose has
meaning. Dried roses can be used for products as well. Then you have the
products that result from processing the rose. Rose oils and rose waters are at
least two such products.

Health stores enjoy the benefits of the rose market. It is widely known that
rose hips are high in Vitamin C. Rosehips are the 'fruit' that develops once
the petals have fallen off the rose flower, about the size of a cherry, and
similar in taste to a cranberry. Indeed there are many vitamins on the market
that tout the addition of rose hips. Even Vitamin C itself can have the added
appeal of rosehips.

Although, not a popular idea anymore, many recipes can be made using rosehips.
You must remove all seeds to avoid discomfort when digested. This shouldn't
scare a person from experimenting with the recipes. Many foods must be properly
prepared to avoid digestive problems.

Should you decide to be adventurous enough to try cooking with rosehips, here
is a list of the possibilities: syrup, applesauce, pudding, fruit leather,
soup, bread, tea, pie, candy, and jelly. Rose berries were eaten as dinner
vegetables in World War II, to enhance good health.

The rose market for plants alone is enormous. Potted, climbing, as bushes,
wild, cuttings, or as seeds. The rose spreads joy in many ways, for many
reasons, in many forms. No one is too old or young to be touched by a rose in
some way, shape or form. It is indeed one of the most wondrous creations.

Information on Miniature Roses

Miniature roses are actual roses but bred to stay small in size. Most mini
roses also have smaller flowers than standard rose bushes but they come in a
variety of types and colors. Miniature roses are quite hardy plants despite
their small size. In fact, they are more winter hardy than most tea roses.
Miniature roses also tend to be repeat bloomers which is an advantage in adding
them to your gardens. Listed below are a few of the more popular miniature roses.

Climbers: Minis with a vertical growth habit and can become trained to grow
against supports.

Miniflora: An American Rose Society classification for newly developed mini
roses that have a slightly larger plant and bloom size than miniature roses.

Micro-Mini: Term for the smallest mini roses.

Trailers: Minis with a cascading growth habit that are wonderful in baskets,
window boxes and over walls.

In planting your miniature roses, you plant just like full size roses. Dig a
hole the same depth as the pot the rose came in and about a foot wider.
Carefully loosen the rose from the pot and remove while gently loosening the
roots. If the plant seems to be tightly root bound, use a knife to slit the
sides of the root ball and try again to loosen the roots. Place the rose bush
in the center of the hole with roots spread out. Place soil in the hole and
press firmly. Before applying a layer of mulch be sure to thoroughly water your
rose bush. In feeding, regular fertilizing is necessary all season. Use general
purpose fertilizer or commercial rose food and follow instructions on label.
End feedings approximately six to eight weeks before first expected frost.

When watering your rose, bush the amount required depends on the local soil and
weather. An inch or so of water per week should be sufficient unless there are
dry spells wherein you will need to water more frequently. Water the rose bush
deeply so the soil is wet a minimum of twelve to eighteen inches below the
surface. Try not to wet the leaves during humid weather to omit fungal disease.
Pruning is not a big issue with miniature roses. Prune before new growth starts
in early spring. Just prune back around one third of the plant to maintain
shape and encourage new growth. Miniature roses are just as suspect to diseases
as larger roses. Always keep an eye out for early signs of insect damage and
treat quickly.

Miniature roses are great in the house too. Most are disappointed by their
performance indoors and realize being roses they need lots of sun and good
humidity. Most roses if given for gifts will be long lasting if transplanted
outdoors. Miniature roses if properly cared for can give you years of enjoyment
and bring color, fragrance and vibrancy to your yard. Whether adorning a seaside
cottage trellis, adorning the stone at the Vanderbilt House or growing wildly
along your fenced driveway, miniature roses are timeless and bring spectacular
images to the most discriminate of gardeners.

How to Care for an Antique Rose

When one thinks of an antique, a rose might not immediately come to mind. But
antique roses have been around for centuries. Shakespeare used the word
'eglantine' when speaking of the rose in his sonnets and plays. Eglantine is
described in the dictionary as a European rose with sweet-scented leaves and
pink flowers.

If you aren't familiar with the word 'emporium', it means a large store with a
wide variety of things for sale. There are antique rose emporiums to delight
rose growers. You can buy an antique rose already rooted from a rose emporium.

How does one prepare to grow an antique? First choose an area that allows for
several hours of morning sunlight. It is best to give the plant room for
healthy air movement as the bush will grow and develop. Break the soil well; a
tiller is helpful should you desire to plant many plants in one area. It's
better to have rich soil in which to grow your antique. The antique will do
better if you add good quality organic material and if the soil has proper
drainage.

When does one prepare the area for planting the antique? It's best to prepare
in the spring or summer if you live in a southern climate. When you are new to
planting, it is an easy assumption that all planting should be done in the
spring. But it depends on the climate of the area where you live. If you are
buying seeds, there are usually helpful maps on the back of the seed packets to
use as a guide. If you are buying from a nursery, be sure to ask there. Of
course, you could always try looking it up online or going to the local library
or enlisting the advice of an established gardener.

How long can you keep an antique in a container before planting outdoors? If
needed, you can keep an antique in a container for several months. You'll want
to give them more attention than once you get them established outdoors.
Remember to fertilize and water frequently---and don't forget proper drainage
and air flow around the plants!

Should you add mulch to your antique roses? A true-blue gardener would gasp at
the neglect to add mulch! It cuts down on weeds. This may seem strange since it
aids the growth of one type of plant and inhibits the growth of another.
Mulching also means less stress to your roots from the heat.

How often would one water an antique? It helps to deep-soak your antique once a
week---that means saturating the ground in which you have planted your rose.
Several hours or overnight should do the trick. This is where it is extremely
helpful to have a soaker hose for soaking more than one plant at once.

An antique rose is not disease free, but it is disease resistant. It's still
important to watch for insect or other damage. Should you spray, it is
preferable to use a mild fungicide. If in doubt, read the labels on the product
carefully. Prune your antique lightly and respectfully. It won't bloom well if
the new growth has to endure damage from heat or frost.

Have You Heard of Floribundas?

The American Rose Society did not at first accept the term 'floribunda'. Is a
rose that is crossbred a true rose? I suppose that would be a matter of
opinion. Roses are highly crossbred. A floribunda could be dubbed the modern
rose. You might think of it as an enhanced rose, bred to bring out the best in
a flowering plant. So, what is a floribunda? Although many varieties have been
developed, a floribunda is a hybrid that was originally a cross between a
polyantha and a tea rose. There was a man who developed many varieties in 1920;
his nickname became Papa Floribunda.

This flower is grown mainly for garden color. The floribunda grows lower, which
can be a positive attribute. Known as a cluster rose, the floribunda tolerates
neglect better than any other rose type except shrub roses. A floribunda is a
good landscape choice because it can provide an almost nonstop source of color.

Positive aspects of the floribunda include: abundant flowers, long-lasting
blooms, versatile for landscaping, can be used as a hedge or just to accent the
landscape, some have a more intense fragrance than most other roses, and they
have a delicate appearance.

Negative aspects include: not eligible for Queen of Show, need plenty of
feeding, fare far better on a regular feeding schedule (be sure to consider
this if you are the type of person who forgets to feed your plants or just
doesn't have the time to devote to a regular feeding schedule), takes 3 years
to reach maturity, has shorter stems, and has a small size.

Floribundas will be healthier with good air circulation; so when pruning, it
helps to leave the center of the bush open. If you have trouble remembering
when to prune, prune near a holiday or a special day during the pruning season.
If you leave the older canes when pruning, you are rewarded with larger amounts
of color later. Also, take care to remove a cane that rubs another. Pruning
will aid in air circulation, which helps to cut down on insects and disease as
well.

Other things to remember to maintain healthy floribundas that are grown in pots
are: plenty of root space, good drainage, a pot that is heavy enough to sustain
against wind should the pot be kept in an area more susceptible to windy
conditions, a pot that is wide enough to provide stability. [ A word of
caution: saucers under pots can invite root rot.] Even in floribundas,
chemicals are needed to control problems. Concentrates must be applied with
care so as not to cause leaf burn.

Some interesting names of existing floribundas are: Playboy, Playgirl, Pure
Poetry, Eye Paint, French Lace, Show Biz, Cherish, and Trumpeter.

If you wrap your roses in paper or foil, then plunge them deep into water, it
will keep their stems from sagging should you desire to display them.

The word floribunda alone could be a helpful source of entertainment for a
gardening parent. Give your child a pencil and piece of paper while you garden
and ask he/she to see how many words they can make from the letters in the word
floribunda!

Discover Antique Roses

Antique roses, also called Victorian Roses, are said to be strong survivors and
the most fragrant of the roses. The word antique applies obviously to its
history. An antique of any kind, however, will catch a collector's eye. What
better to put near a museum, which houses antiques, than a flowering plant also
named antique? Antiques of all kinds have gained in popularity over the years.
It makes sense that a flower with similar name, would gain as well.

Although very well-known in the southern states of the United States, an
antique rose plant can also be found in other parts of the globe, including
China, Canada, and Russia to name a few. Some places in the United States that
are known for antique roses are: Brenham, TX (Antique Rose Emporium),
Sebastopol, CA (Vintage Gardens), Laurens, SC (Roses Unlimited), Eustes, FL
(Seminole Springs Antique Rose and Herb Farm), and in Canada (Pickering
Nurseries, Inc.).

If you want your roses to stay strong in the winter, you must be sure to not
neglect them in the summer months. A healthier plant is a hardier plant. It is
said that the fall's cooler temperatures will stimulate the antique rose
plants. It makes sense when the cooler weather also stimulates us humans.
Doesn't a cold shower tend to get the blood flowing? While I wouldn't recommend
giving your roses a cold shower, except by nature's own rain, I wish only to
make a point.

Many people start roses from cuttings. I am not one blessed with a "green
thumb", so I have yet to try this. It is interesting to think that only a piece
of another plant could produce a thing of such beauty when tended properly.

Certain things should be taken into consideration when growing antique roses.
Things such as the PH balance of the soil, insects, proper grooming and
pruning, fertilizing, fungus, mildew, and a late freeze are some things to
guard against.

Certain things that a rose might coax for your viewing pleasure, are bumblebees
and butterflies. There are sure to be human visitors ready to pour their
admiration for your beautiful antique roses.

Keep in mind that some plants will bloom only once a year, so make your
selection carefully. Be sure to consider your climate as well. Protect your
investment and you won't be disappointed. The price of quart sized pots range
anywhere from $5.95 to $15.95-US dollars.

Antique rose memorabilia can be found in many shopping places that sell
flowers. If cash is an issue, you can check discount shops, auctions, garage
sales and flea markets.

You can find items with antique rose themes in jewelry, paintings, valances,
lamp shades, bedding, photo frames, stationery, and posters, to name a few.

Just the name, "Antique Rose", carries a hint of romanticism, class, and a
certain sophistication. There is the old saying that a rose by any other name
is still a rose! Ahhh, but the many kinds we are blessed with! And the name of
this such kind seems to demand respect.

Arranging Flowers For Dummies

Have you been intimidated by the thought of putting together a flower
arrangement but experienced failure before you even bought the flowers?
Arranging flowers is not that difficult with a little guidance and some great
ideas! Displaying your flowers can be fun especially when being creative in
stylish but simple ways.

The first thing to start with is finding some basic household containers for
your fresh cut flowers. Don't be limited to the typical glass vase but expand
the horizons of your creativity and just start to look around you. Grandma's
old water picture makes a great country look or a sterling silver pitcher for a
more traditional look. Simple candle votive holders with a single flower in it
at each place setting at your dinner party, adds a touch of elegance. Old cans
and bottles can be quite nostalgic. The ideas are endless without the expense
of purchasing a vase. Choosing flowers with large heads like lilies, orchids or
sunflowers individually put in a container all lined up is quite stylish.

Using vintage teapots, tumblers or even old jam jars can create a conversation
piece. Be sure to cut the stems short so the flowerheads skim the top of the
container. Jar or glass containers can be put inside baskets for a unique fall
look or spring assortment.

If you have a suitable vase but the color is just not right, try wrapping it
with ribbon, string or a scarf. This adds a nice visual interest and distracts
the eye from the vase. You could even stick the vase inside a decorative gift
bag for that goes with your theme or decor.

It is much easier to coordinate the color of flowers once you have the vase
design set. Another great idea, yet simple, is to cover the outside of the vase
in double-sided adhesive tape. Then stick large leaves vertically around. Some
household leaves look wonderful because of their exotic markings, coloration or
glossiness. If you have no leaves, wind plain string or colored in coils around
the bottles of jars. Adding beads or shells can add an ethnic look. Satin
parcel ribbon or even honeysuckle vines will work. Go with where your interests
lie.

If this is all not simple enough for you or you have had a few disasters in
your demonstration, then a lovely way of displaying flowers is to cut off
individual flower heads and float them in a low dish of water. Adding small
floating candles is very romantic and brings a peace and tranquillity into your
arrangement and your home.

Flower arranging is not something you can really fail at if the flowers you
love are mixed with the people you love. Whether the arrangement is for your
home or elsewhere, enjoy your creation and the time you spent creating it. Stop
and smell the flowers is a cliche we have all heard but oh so true! In this fast
paced world, take time to enjoy the scents, beauty and diversity of flowers.

Admiring the Old Garden Rose

To recreate the gardens of your ancestors, include the old garden roses. These
date back for centuries, are hardier, and include a large variety. They fare
well in poor conditions, are the easiest type of rose to care for, do best in
rich soil that drains well, and continue to bloom for years.

Some types of the old garden rose are Mary Queen of Scots, Sweetheart Rose,
American Beauty, Awakening, and Belle Amore. The Butterfly Rose is an ancient
hybrid from China, introduced in 1932. The blooms change colors from soft
orange to pink to carmine, which makes it a delight to observe.

Old garden roses with the traditional appearance include:

The Duchesse de Brabant (a Gulf Coast rose with a light scent), Belinda's Dream
(long stems, nice fragrance), Zepherine Drouhin (unique fragrance), Red Radiance
(strong fragrance).

What classifies a rose as an old garden rose? According to the American Rose
Society, these are plants introduced before 1867. They prefer light
fertilization, a light feeding schedule, and patience. They bloom only when
they are ready to bloom.

Judging seminars are held because it is a challenge to judge the old garden
rose; therefore, the judging for it is not set in stone. Fewer judges are
familiar with it than with the newer modern roses. If your goal is to show your
old garden roses for prizes, you'll have to pay a bit more attention to them and
prepare them properly for the shows. Things to look for include strong, vibrant
blooms, leaves, and stems. They should have good color. Remove damaged petals
(trim if necessary). The foliage should be clean. The less side growths you
have on your canes, the better. A stem-on-stem condition is considered
impairment. This is when new growth starts where old growth had stopped.

A national show was held in Dallas, Texas, in October of 2006. There are
district shows and local shows around the country as well. If you are
interested in competing in the rose shows, you might consider joining the
American Rose Society. Through such a group, you can obtain a wealth of
information and contacts.

Plenty of garden groups and clubs exist for rose enthusiasts. A short list of
some of these clubs are as follows: American Horticultural Society, Arlington
Rose Foundation, Phoenix Rose Society, Potomac Rose Society, Arizona West
Valley Rose Society, and Humboldt Rose Society.

If you would enjoy traveling around the United States in search of gardens to
view the various old garden roses, among other types, you could try the
following places:

The Pageant of Roses Garden, Whittier, CA, Washington Park International Rose
Test Garden, Portland, OR, Inez Parker Memorial Rose Garden, San Diego, CA, The
Gardens of the American Rose Society, Shreveport, LA, Tyler Municipal Rose
Garden Center, Tyler, TX, and the Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin, TX.

If traveling the United States is not an option, try the local yellow pages in
your area or call or visit the Chamber of Commerce in your town to get
information on local gardens, clubs, and events that feature old garden roses.

Why You Should Enjoy the Famous Yellow Rose

Who hasn't heard of the song about 'The Yellow Rose of Texas'? The yellow rose
is one of the most popular roses in history. The song, however, was actually
about a lady a Civil War soldier is trying to find. Dolly Parton also wrote a
song titled 'Yellow Roses' about a romance with someone who both began and
ended the relationship with a yellow rose.

There are companies named for the yellow rose, such as Yellow Rose Products,
Yellow Rose Enterprises and Yellow Rose Gifts. There are books written, such as
the Yellow Rose Bride, A Texas Sky, the Yellow Rose Trilogy and a series called
The Yellow Rose Mysteries. There is yellow rose white gold jewelry. A concealer
has been made called the Yellow Rose of Texas, which hides imperfections of the
skin.

The yellow rose has been said to symbolize friendship, caring, freedom, dying
love, and platonic love. In German-speaking countries, the yellow rose means
jealousy or infidelity. It is appropriate to send yellow roses to graduates,
Texans, new mothers, and newlyweds. If you send red roses mixed with yellow
roses, it stands for happiness and celebration. A single rose of any color is a
sign of thanks. A safe idea is to send a note with the yellow rose, explaining
your intentions! In the 18th century, yellow roses were discovered growing wild
in parts of the Middle East. The first yellow roses found did not have a sweet
smelling fragrance. Cross-breeding was a friend to the yellow rose's scent. You
can buy organically grown yellow roses, which would give support to
environmentally-friendly farming.

Yellow roses will bring a touch of sunshine to any flower arrangement. You
won't be disappointed in the addition to your flower bed. They add elegance to
any decor in a home. The yellow rose is a pleasant image on items of clothing,
bedding, curtains, and so on.

The yellow rose has brought financial gain to Texas by association with the
song title. It has benefited Texas for years by way of its commercial value.
But the yellow rose is certainly not limited to Texas or Texas products and
services. It is available in many areas of the world. People in countries that
have no connection to Texas have enjoyed the silent, quiet, soothing beauty of
the yellow rose.

On the downside, there is a link between yellow roses and blackspot. Blackspot
is a leaf disease that defoliates and kills. Hybrid yellow roses have been bred
stronger and more resistant to blackspot, however, resistant roses still need
care to avoid disease. Also, the area makes a difference in how well a yellow
rose will be able to fend off disease. A warm and humid climate will be more
inviting to the disease. There are sprays available to help guard against
blackspot, such as apple cider vinegar spray. Wild herbs like stinky nettle,
horsetails, and comfrey are also used by some as a spray for blackspot.
Whatever the case, if you truly want yellow roses, where there's a will,
there's a way!

Why Would I Want to Grow Hybrid Teas?

The hybrid tea might also be called the flower of lovers. It makes the perfect
long-stemmed rose. It flowers repeatedly and can be strong with the proper
care. It is the resulting combination of the tea rose and the hybrid perpetual.
A hybrid tea is an ideal choice to present to the love of your life, a special
gift for a mother, or just to display on your tabletop. It will add a touch of
elegance to any room even as a lone flower in a vase. There are at least 237
varieties available. If you worry about thorns, you can choose a thorn less
type of hybrid tea. In my humble opinion, the thorns add to the artistic charm
of the flower. It demands respect and adds character.

Be sure to take care of your newly acquired plant. You'll want to decide what
to feed it for endurance and strength and overall health. Each established
gardener most likely has a favorite recipe or brand of plant food. Guard
against overuse when feeding. It is possible to chemically burn your leaves or
stems. The food is often concentrated and requires diluting. Watering heavily
also helps dilute the food for the hybrid teas to process more easily and
acceptably. You really only have to feed once in the spring and again in the
fall. Some gardeners may choose to feed more often.

Pruning, feeding, proper watering, insect and disease control all sound a bit
overwhelming at first. But it's actually an easy process to learn. Like any
living thing, there is a necessity for proper growth and development. Try
keeping notes you feel are important about your hybrid and its care. These may
even come in handy should you choose to try your luck with other flowering
plants. Once you become more comfortable with the care of your plant, you'll be
better able to appreciate it.

Some hybrid teas have romantic names, such as Bride's Dream, Bronze Star,
Change of Heart, or Classic Beauty. If you like card games, perhaps your
landscape would be more complete with the Ace of Hearts. Like many other
things, there are hybrid teas named after famous people such as Barbara
Streisand, Barbara Bush, Bing Crosby, and Bob Hope. Whatever your choice, you
shouldn't be disappointed in one of the most popular and beloved of roses.

It would probably be next to impossible to count all the things ever written
about the rose. Often when one pictures a love scene, if a rose is involved, it
would be a long-stemmed hybrid with or without thorns. Although they are not
known for their strong scent, a hybrid tea has its own appeal in its appearance
alone. Commercially, it is a welcomed rose. Shown in many pictures and used in
many images, the hybrid is greatly admired. It's image is used on gift wrap,
tattoos, dinnerware, in wedding decorations, and especially on assorted items
for Valentine's Day, to name a few.

What Do You Know About the English Rose?

One type of rose that seems saturated with sophistication beginning with its
name is the English rose. There have been stories and books written with the
name. But the English roses are especially deserving of a name that suggests
class and royalty.

English roses are a group of roses, introduced by a hybridizer in the 1960's.
They were created to enhance some of the Old Roses, although a rose is a
special flower in its own right and would seem to need no such enhancing. A
rose by any name or type is a long-admired favorite among almost anyone.

The English roses tickle the senses with their delicate charm and fragrance. If
you enjoy the idea of a larger rose, this type is a good choice. Being a fuller
flower with many lovely petals, it is a delight for the eyes. Having been bred
also for the excellent scent, English roses are a delight for the nose as well.
The old-style combines with the modern style for a nice balance.

Although roses are mostly associated with the thought of the female gender,
many types of English roses also carry male names. If you'd like a garden to
suggest a theme, you could devote an area to roses with names of each gender. A
few of the English roses with names are: Charles Austin, David Austin, Brother
Cadfael, Charles Darwin, and Benjamin Britten. Some English roses with female
names include: Barbara Austin, Claire Rose, Cordelia, Evelyn, and Gertrude
Jekyll. Maybe you'd like to include some English roses with names that play on
your tongue to exercise your palate. Try Corvedale, Glanis Castle, Jaquenetta,
and Mortimer Sackler. If you yearn for English roses with names from other
lands, try Queen Nefertiti, Sharifa Asma, or Shropshire Lad.

As with most anything these days, there are many websites devoted to the famous
David Austin English roses. They are beautiful hybrids that can only add
pleasure to your landscaping. They are meant to be admired and enjoyed by all.
One man's dream and creativity reaches people worldwide with something as
simple and yet complex as the English roses.

Roses have the most elaborate vocabulary of any flower. Rose buds generally
signify youth and beauty, red roses signify passion, white roses purity and
innocence, and yellow roses jealousy and/or infidelity. You'll find a wide
array of colors available in the English roses. They can mean much or nothing,
depending on what you want from your garden.

An interesting tidbit of information is that rose water is not a perfume. It is
still used in cosmetics and perfume. The Romans created a beauty treatment using
dried roses and lion's fat.

English roses are enjoyed by people in all walks of life: rich, poor, famous,
and the regular "joe". You don't have to speak a certain language or be anyone
special to plant and enjoy the endearing English roses. You don't have to have
an entire garden of roses either. An English rose plant is beautiful all by
itself.

What About Roses Called Climbers?

Some say roses aren't climbers by nature and must be taught. Just think....a
climber that can grow to forty feet up a tree, yes, it's possible! If you
prefer a smaller version, there is also the miniature climber to consider. Any
rose is beautiful, but you might say climbers have a farther "reach".

Suppose I give you an image flower lovers can appreciate? Imagine a field such
as seen under the warm California sunshine. It's a grapevine field, with rows
and rows to fill. Now substitute the grapevines with climbing roses! What a
vision that would be to behold.

However, you must choose your climber with care, for some are only able to
tolerate small amounts of sunshine and will bloom only with the proper amount
of sunlight. You'll need to keep it properly pruned for the better health of
the plant. It will need plenty of room to spread its spectacular beauty. Some
climbers grow taller and larger depending upon their climate. You'll need
access to the taller parts of the plant. You may decide to shape it.

Some questions to consider are: 'how often will you want the climber to bloom',
'will you want a certain color theme among your climbers', 'would you need to
treat it for bugs native to your area'.

A climber and a rambler are different types of rose plants. Climbers need to be
tied to a structure to maintain stability. They have heavier vines, or canes if
you will, than the rambler. The rambler's vines are more flexible and must be
trained to grow over an object.

As with many flowers, the best time to plant a climber is at least 6 weeks
before the first hard frost or in the spring or fall when the weather is
cooler, but not wintry. You could start the plant indoors and then move it to
the garden. Build a teepee of wooden poles; make sure the height of the legs
will suit your container; wind nylon wire or string in a criss-cross fashion
around the poles to give the plant places to grab as it works its way up the
poles.

An easy idea for use with climbers is a trellis, which is made with either
lumber or plastic. Although, personally, I would think the plastic surface
would be harder for the plant to grab and hold. You could substitute nylon
netting in place of the string or wire.

If you have little ones who want to help garden, you could buy popsicle sticks
for them to glue together in lattice fashion for use with your climber. If you
are comfortable with the art work of a child, you could have he or she paint
the container and put their own pictures and letting on it. One idea that may
be of interest to moms or grandmothers is to allow the child their own climbing
garden area. It would teach them the wonders of the rose on a level they could
accept more readily.

What About Rose Gardening?

Ask anyone who has a green thumb about rose gardening, and you may need a tape
recorder to remember all the advice you'll get! Almost anyone who has an
interest in gardening flowers and plants will eventually mosey into rose
territory. It's almost irresistible because of the beauty and scent of one of
the most popular plants on earth.

A rose is like no other. Rose gardening then will certainly open up grounds for
controversy among fellow gardeners. It's a subject like that of rearing
children. To the rose gardening crowd, their plants often become like their own
children.

They must be fed and nourished and guided properly to bloom and flourish into
their majestic beauty.

Gardeners have been known to talk to their plants to coax them into perfect
health.

Rose gardening is sure to involve getting your hands dirty. If you want to
truly enjoy the experience, you must dig in with gusto and heartily embrace
your adventure. Well, there are gloves, you know; but the earth welcomes the
hands-on experience. Some say it is quite gratifying to become like one with
the soil.

There is surely an art to rose gardening. The experience can be as simple or as
scientific as you so choose. You may want to stock up on things like mulch, a
shovel, a hoe, weed-killer, a watering can or hose, and maybe something called
Miracle Grow or "food" for your rose plants. Not to mention bandaids if your
plants have thorns! You're certain to get pricked at some point if you have the
type of rose plant that produces thorns. It's all part of the true rose
gardening experience.

Roses have been known to contract diseases, so you want to know your plants
well to be able to recognize unhealthy changes in their leaves, color, overall
health. Any living thing is susceptible to such and must be monitored.

Certainly some research is recommended should you choose to begin rose
gardening. It would be advisable to research your particular type of rose
plant. The adorable miniature roses may need different care than another type
of rose plant. Also, a rose that grows well in one area of the globe may
struggle in another.

Unsure where to start? The internet has vast amounts of information for rose
gardening. There are gardening clubs in many areas. You can search your local
library or favored book store for the proper books or magazines. Maybe it would
be a good way to meet that neighbor you never knew how to approach. There are
also many elderly gardeners who would enjoy mentoring the right student in rose
gardening.

Remember, when you choose your rose plant, you may want to share the beautiful
blossoms with someone special, or many someones. A child's teacher, some lonely
person in a nursing home or hospital, someone who is unable to enjoy the rose
gardening experience firsthand, a favored relative or friend. So make sure you
choose carefully and choose enough to share! A rose just isn't meant to enjoy
alone.

The White Rose Is Not Just Another Flower!

Because white is a symbol of purity, honor, and innocence, white roses are
often the type of flower chosen for weddings. They seem to exude cleanliness,
freshness, and sophistication. A bush loaded full with white roses is an
outstanding sight to behold! One might think of them as having heavenly beauty.

The beginning of a new relationship, a fresh start, a baby's birth, could be
celebrated with a gift of breathtaking white roses. They can bring an air of
importance to any event, or to your outdoor scenery. They can bring out the
best in a formal setting and add a teasing glimpse of bright color and beauty
to an informal setting.

White roses are used in garlands, as adornments for hair, decoration on hats,
or in corsages and boutonnieres. When used fresh, they can only last a few
hours.

Proper preparation for long use of fresh white roses includes:

1. Soak the stem in room-temperature water for a few hours prior to use.

2. Wrap the end of the stem or stems tightly in florist's tape to contain the
moisture.

3. Slip wires discreetly beneath the florist's tape and pierce the calyx. [The
calyx is the outer group of protective leaves of a flower.] The wire helps
stiffen the stem.

There is such a thing as a glass lapel vase. When refilled, often it will keep
the flowers strong for days. White roses can be ordered and shipped overnight.
It is possible to find them for about forty dollars a dozen. They can be mixed
with other colored flowers to brighten an arrangement.

White on roses that aren't mean to be white can signify downy mildew. This
condition is brought on by hot days and cold nights; possibly there will not be
enough air circulation. There is a fungicide available. Always read the labels
to determine that it will be what is best for your particular climate and
plant. As with any chemical, you should use a fungicide with care. Using mulch
around the roots is helpful to protect against this condition.

An interesting white rose is a Cherokee rose. It comes from the Orient, made
its way to Florida, and escaped to become the wild rose of the South. Soldiers
during the Civil War planted this rose on the graves of fallen comrades. Indian
legends have been made about this white rose. Also in the south, there is a
leafy white rose native to North Central Texas. The most famous rose gardens
are in Tyler, Texas, known for its field-grown roses. An autumn rose festival
is held there each year. It is not unusual to see wild white roses running wild
in south Texas, at a height of up to eight feet. White roses do indeed add a
wild grace to an untamed countryside.

Early Christians used to shun the rose, believing it a symbol of pagan
corruption. The belief was also that the rose grew thorn less in the Garden of
Eden and acquired thorns to remind people of their sins. How ironic that the
white rose, indeed that any rose used to be shunned and is now a welcome symbol
in many ways.

The Rose: A Marian Symbol

In the Greco-Roman culture, the rose represented beauty, love and the season of
spring. It also spoke of the fleetness of time, and therefore implied death and
the next world.

In Latin Christian iconography, the first use of the rose appears in the scenes
representing the next world. Also used were the lily and other flowers. These
flowers also became symbols of virtues and of categories of the elect. The red
rose represented the martyrs, and the lily, for the virgins. The rose as the
queen of flowers, was evidently a privileged symbol for Mary. She is called a
rose among the thorns. The rose is also a symbol of Christ who is called the
Rose of Sharon. Wonderful examples of this symbolism are found in the gothic
cathedrals and their rose windows. These circular stained glass windows enhance
the three entrances of these churches. These immense roses symbolize the world
of salvation offered and revealed by God to our lost human race through the old
and New Testaments. Christ, at the center of these rose windows, appears usually
as judge or in the mystery of his Incarnation. In the latter example we see Mary
presenting the Child Jesus.

During the Middle Ages the theme of the rose garden developed from the
symbolism of the rose in the literature of courtly love.

In the literature's of these times the rose was the symbol of the beloved lady.
Later the influence of the Song of Songs led to the rose symbolizing the
mystical union between Christ and his Church or between God and each member of
his people. Mary was honored as the model of our union with God. The rose then
became a symbol of the union between Christ and Mary thus titled the Mystical
Rose in many writings. Marian symbolism of the rose was later popularized by
the devotion of the rosary. The structured prayer form of 150 Hail Mary's was
termed a "rosary." Here, with the religious, the symbolism of the rosary stands
as an anthology of spirituality.

Our Lady of the rosary is Our Lady of the roses. The roses are the symbols of
greeting offered to the Mother of God. The religious greet her with spiritual
flowers.

Another use of the rose as a spiritual symbol is symbolic. The rose became a
moral emblem to illustrate various old sayings or rules of conduct. For
example: "Life is a rose. Its beauty fades rapidly." "As the rose blossoms
under the sun, I shall blossom under the eyes of God." "I am the rose of
Sharon, and the lily of the valleys."

The rose also symbolizes the trials and tribulations of life. There will be
pain amongst the beauty, blooming even in the deserts of life and thorns within
the trusting of the Vine. The rose, whether depicted through the Virgin Mary or
The Christ, is a symbol of love, passion and perseverance throughout all the
ages and the ages to come.

You CAN Grow Roses as a Groundcover

Would you like to cut down on the areas you would normally have to mow grass?
You could plant roses as a groundcover. This will produce an effect that is
quite pleasing to the eye. Roses as a groundcover won't kill underlying weeds,
therefore you will still need to prepare your ground to cut down on the chances
of weeds growing underneath your groundcover.

They can grow out as wide as six feet and upwards as high as 2 feet. This may
help you decide how many plants you'll want to buy for adequate coverage.

The image of a rose plant is usually that of a rosebush, not as a groundcover.
This is a fairly new concept. The beauty of it, of course, is more than just
the benefit of coverage, but also that of gracing your yard with the
ever-popular rose.

Why use a groundcover at all? It helps prevent erosion on banks, grows low, and
covers a wide area. The groundcover rose is not to be misinterpreted as a
ground-hugger.

It's best to choose for repeated blooming and disease resistance. Pruning may
still be necessary, depending on the effect you desire. Of course, to keep the
groundcover looking its best, monitor for dead stems.

Some available choices for groundcover roses are: Flower Carpet Coral, Flower
Carpet Appleblossom, The Fairy, Baby Blanket, Red, White, or Pink Meidiland,
Foxy, My Rosy Carpet, and Sea Foam.

If you want strong fragrance, be sure to check on that feature before you
purchase your groundcover rose. Many modern roses are simply not bred for a
strong fragrance, but more so for your viewing pleasure.

Groundcover roses do tend to be quite thorny. Thorns for a true rose grower are
but a minor inconvenience. If you'll need access to the areas or plants nearby,
you'd do well to consider placement so you aren't continually fighting the
abuse from being pricked and scratched. Weed removal is more of a challenge
with this type of plant.

A particular favorite among groundcover roses seems to be the Flower Carpet
Series. However, Rosa 'Glacier Magic' has a spectacular white flower. It is
said to have glossy, large, self-cleaning flowers that are highly pest and
disease resistant. The white blooms help the plant stand out and demand
attention. It's like adding a light to the darkness of a non-blooming
groundcover!

Some groundcover roses don't resemble your traditional expected vision of a
rose. For example, the Rosa 'Nearly Wild' has fewer petals and opens wide. It's
a colorful vision that is still a joy to own.

When deciding where to plant your groundcover roses, remember to avoid areas
where foot traffic would be a hindrance or vice versa. Consider whether you'll
need to drag a water hose out to the area. If so, you may want to purchase a
soaker hose, and make sure it will be the proper length. If you'll have a big
area to maintain or if your groundcover will be spread out to include various
areas of your yard, the purchase of a wheelbarrow could be an asset. Gloves
that protect against thorns may be needed. Such items as a hoe for weeding,
clippers for pruning, and knee pads could be necessary purchases.

Recommended Fragrant Flowers

When sending flowers, fragrant flowers are usually at the top of the list.
Fragrant flowers just keep on giving long after the initial flower gift is
received. Who can argue that flowers are so delightful and make our spirits
rise for so many different reasons. When considering sending flowers or
planting a garden, choosing fragrant flowers will definitely be a nice
addition. Everyone has their favorite fragrant flower but the list below might
offer you a good idea of the most fragrant.

Roses: Roses are the irresistible fragrant flower. Who can resist the
temptation of the first thing being is to smell the intricate rose? All roses
are not the same so be sure to use your sniffer and find the fragrance you like
best.

.Sweet Alyssum: If you do not readily think of sweet alyssum when you think of
fragrant flowers, try putting some by your window or door. These dainty flowers
can be planted as ground cover or potted in a plant and given as a gift.
Wherever these fragrant flowers are, you will catch their delicate scent. These
are a lovely, fragrant addition to your garden.

Carnations: Carnations have a very distinctive fragrance that is spicy and
sweet. It is a fragrance that once you have smelled you will always recognize
it's odor. Carnations have a wonderful lingering that will fill your house.
Carnations also seem to last longer than other cut flowers.

Gardenias: Gardenias, what is there to say about such a beautifully fragrant,
gorgeous flower? Gardenias are all alike so a container full of these fragrant
treasures are "oh so heavenly." This lovely flower is always a great choice!

Freesia: This very sweet flower is very pleasing to our senses and is used in
room spray, candles and hair supplies. Freesia is a very popular scent and
always a safe choice.

Jasmine: Jasmine, oh how sweet it is! This delicate flower packs a powerful
punch. This adorable, tiny flower is filled with exquisite perfume and is used
in candles, incense and many perfume products. Needless to say, Jasmine is a
thumbs up all the way around.

Lilies: The lilies make a beautiful, fragrant, large bouquet of flowers and are
especially given at Easter. Entering a room where lilies are present, you are
greeted with an aroma that is quite notable and lingering. Lilies make a
beautiful centerpiece and have special memories attached to them within most
families.

Sweet Peas: Sweet peas are a generational favorite and have graced many gardens
with their powerful fragrance. These delicate flowers are adored for their
lovely pastels and the sweetness in the air. A simple flower, with a simple
name, with anything but a simple fragrance.

Lavender: Lavender flowers have been a long time favorite due to their powerful
and recognizable fragrance. When planted along the front porch or in window
boxes, the sweet and spicy fragrance will greet you in your coming and you're
going. Add this lovely scented flower to a drawer, pillow or just wherever you
long to smell this delectable fragrance.

Honeysuckle: The distinct fragrance of the honeysuckle is undeniably succulent.
Kick off your shoes and lie near a honey suckle bush and be caught up its
fragrance. Once planted, this hardy flowering bush needs little care and will
take off in growth. Year after year, it will produce the pretty, colorful,
fragrant flowers and will be a country style addition to a down home bouquet.

Your favorite fragrant choices may not be the same as on this list but
hopefully this will be a guide to inspire you to add the charming and fragrant
flowers to your gardens or ideas of flowers to give. Plant or give what you
like and your choice will not only touch your heart but the hearts of others.

The Basics of Designing Gardens

Just like the Nike ad says "Just Do It," this is exactly the perspective one
needs in getting good at garden designs. You can always move plants around your
gardens and as your ideas and taste change, your gardens can grow with you.
There are some simple elements of garden design. Think of designing your garden
with living art in mind being creative and free to try whatever suits your
taste. There are no limitations to the creativity that's' within, no comparison
or fear of failure. Although gardening successfully requires learning certain
skills, when all is said and done a garden's beauty is truly in the eye of the
beholder. Just go for it and let your gardens be the expression of you.

Garden design and its principles used may be called by different names. There
are three basic concepts when combined together will bring about good garden
design. Ultimately your gardens' design is up to you and should reflect your
own personality and flare.

Order, balance and proportion are the basic structure of the garden. Order is
symmetrical through repeating plants or colors. Bold or bright additions bring
balance as well as adding some texture. Texture is an important ingredient.
Gardens come to life with different textured plants much like the human race.
All different but flowing together and being brought together through unity and
harmony creating comfort and peace.

When all of the parts of the garden are flowing together it is captivating and
ones' spirit is caught up in the beauty.

Using a limited color pattern, repetition of plants and a clear focal point
creates this environment. Theme gardens are very soothing: all one color,
butterfly gardens or cross gardens keep you flowing in like unity.You'll also
hear a lot of talk about starting your garden with good bones. That basically
means creating an outlining foundation, with trees, structures, paths, etc. for
the rest of the garden to build off of. Evergreen is a favorite of the good
bones.

Having a focal point is a big benefit for every garden. With no focal point the
eye starts to wonder here and there without every getting a grasp of a main
feature. This is not creating the harmony you desire for your gardens or
creating any curb appeal. Beginning gardeners seem to pick the same flowers or
foliage over and over again which has no visual interest. Planting an
architectural, bold leafed plant, can restore this visual interest instead of
the monotony of likeness.

Last, but not least, is adding color to your gardens. Experimenting with your
favorite colors is a good way to see what works best for you. The best advice
to heed though is to start out with 2-3 colors to keep the artist palette
limited. You can always add new colors to your gardens by eyeballing it along
the way. This way you keep the living painting flowing in the harmony you wish
to relate. You will then have a peaceful retreat that you have created and
enable others to share that intimate part of you.

Learning About Nurseries

Although some nurseries may specialize in certain plants, generally a nursery
is incomplete without stocking roses. A nursery should offer a better selection
of types and sizes of rose plants already started than any other store.
Nurseries are placed worldwide. You can find nurseries almost anywhere in the
United States, Australia, and Canada, for instance.

A bigger nursery would be a safer bet for ease of selection, featuring more
stock, a bigger variety, and plants in different stages. You could have the
nurseries order your roses should they not stock what you are searching for, or
if they lack enough of your choice of rose plant. Ask about group discounts if
you belong to a club or discounts for a senior citizen or even a veteran; maybe
you are ordering in bulk and can get a discount for quantity.

Ask your local nursery if it ever has presentations to show you all about
roses. Maybe they have a shop nearby where they sell things pertaining to
roses, like souvenirs or items for the beginning gardener.

Someone who belongs to a garden club or who owns a farm may be able to provide
input on nurseries operating in your area. You could call your local farm feed
store for information on area nurseries. Some farm feed stores order plants
from nurseries to sell at their own place of business.

A benefit of visiting your local nurseries would include seeing your plants
already in various stages of growth, including flowering. You can see the
condition of the plant before purchase. Buying a rose already started will save
you time if you are in a hurry to begin your rose gardening.

A bigger, more established nursery involves more than just a greenhouse. Much
is done to maintain a good nursery. There are workers who must be trained to
plant, tend, handle, load, and unload. Roses must be harvested, graded, packed
properly in strong boxes. The trucks that carry the roses should be
climate-controlled. The flowers may have to be hand-pollinated. There are
different types of mulch, fertilizers, insect control products, temperature
settings, and disposal of plants or pruned parts.

A nursery differs slightly from a garden center. A garden center could be as
simple as a small area in your local discount department store. A nursery is
more involved in the specifics of the planting, harvesting, tending, and
selling. What some stores call a garden center may also include tools or power
equipment to maintain the garden. Nurseries are more beneficial to the economy
in that they usually have huge greenhouses, plants help the quality of our air,
nurseries provide jobs, taxes are paid from the sale of the plants, and items
are bought to maintain the nurseries One way to learn the most about growing
roses is to get a job in a nursery or start your own. If you like the idea of
owning your own nursery, do your homework. Research, research, research, so
that your business will be successful and a place people will be proud to
return to.

Gardening To Relieve Stress

Many of us garden because we want to grow our own fruits and vegetables. An
attractive landscape or curb appeal may be the goal of others. Gardening, no
matter what kind, can also be therapeutic. For many people gardening relaxes
the mind, body and spirit. Actually, it is not gardening that's relaxing but
the way that we approach it. If gardening is seen as a chore, it's stressful.
If we view it as enjoyable, it can help relieve stress.

Focusing on your gardening task is the key to relieving stress. Digging,
chopping, and hitting motions can relieve stress and tension. In some settings,
people hit dummies, slam pillows or hit into thin air but motions of gardening
release stress. Strenuous activities also provide an outlet for pent up
aggression. Strenuous activities are certainly not the only ways to relieve
stress. Something as simple as a walk around the garden may be just what the
doctor ordered. When you take your walk, be sure to absorb all the colors,
fragrances and designs in the garden. You can also admire your gardening skills
and this is sure to reverse the stress into a state of well being.

Here are some pointers for your stress free gardening:

Make a short "to do" list and stick to it. Don't try to do everything in one
afternoon, evening, or weekend because this is sure to manifest as stress.
Attack garden chores with the same vigor as weight-lifting, running, or
swimming.

Stop and rest periodically reviving yourself with some stretching and plenty of
fluids. Listening to music while gardening can add a pleasurable environment
with the calming effect of your favorite tunes. Teach your children how to
garden. Not only will they be learning a lifelong skill but will cherish the
time spent with you.

Stress is at an all time high in the society we live in today and is the root
cause of many diseases and chronic illnesses. Learn how to quite your mind and
tune out the noise by having brief moments of internal silence. If you don't
have the yard or space to denote your own gardening skills, volunteer! There
are many places that have horticultural therapy programs that are in need of
volunteers. Schools, day cares, nursing homes and hospitals are great places to
start looking to volunteer.

Gardening has many other advantages, too. Growing your own produce supplies you
with fresh fruit and vegetables for your summer meals. This is always too a
great avenue to share the harvest with friends and family. What's better than
home grown tomatoes from your own garden? Being out in the sun in limited
amounts of time gardening also supplies you with vitamin D. Sunshine brightens
your spirits and will give you that sun kissed glow. Remember moderation is key
when being out in the sun.

Gardening usually requires a lot of bending and lifting. Doing it the wrong way
can put a lot of strain on your lower back so a good technique for planting or
weeding is to squat. Put one knee on the ground rather than bending at the
waist switching knees every few minutes. Kneel on a small pillow or purchase
knee pads which you can buy at a department store, hardware store, or gardening
shop. Also use caution when lifting shrubs or bags of soil or waste. Try to keep
your back straight and bend at your knees. Use your legs instead of your back to
lift the weight. Be careful not to twist your body and if something is too heavy
to lift then wait on help. Gardening is an excellent way to relieve stress for
all ages but remember to do it safely and over time. Gardening can become not
only a stress reliever but an fulfilling hobby to share with your friends and
family.

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