"Old Roses" Convey Time Honored Tradition
by Simonetta Jensen
http://www.rosesabc.com
In the 18th Century, the practice of tending rose bushes was
popular and a handy source for young men to offer as gifts
during courtship. These roses were not only beautiful to
admire and richly fragrant but also highly symbolic of an
unwritten and often unspoken language between admirers. In
ancient times, some even believed that these roses contained
medicinal properties. Most of these "old roses" came from
hardy shrubs that required moderate tending. Today's "old
rose" varieties are also for the most part hardy but require
consistent attention before you'll achieve a seasoned
gardener's level of perfection.
The category of "old roses" is from a hardy stock of rose
bushes and climbers that were popular in the Victorian age.
Most of these Victorian-age roses were imported from
varieties that were first grown in Greece and Persia during
the 15th Century. These aromatic roses are still highly
popular in today's gardens since they grow well in several
zones and don't require the same highly detailed attention
as 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.
Did you know that the most popular garden plant is the rose?
Out of all the "old roses", the tea rose is the most
popular. Some other "old roses" are listed below, along
with characteristics:
~ Mosses roses - Low bed shrubs or climbers (like
Centrifolia) with tiny roses that leave behind a scent on
your hand. Deep crimson to light pink. Meaning -
"confession of love".
~ Damask roses - Low to the ground shrubs with big fragrant
flowers that are usually deep red and found in clusters.
Additional colors - white to deep pink. Meaning - "beauty
ever new".
~ Tea roses - Climbers or shrubs. A large variety of colors
- light pink to multi-color. Meaning - "I'll remember you
always".
To adhere to 18th Century traditions, roses are best trimmed
in full bloom and presented in a bouquet to convey the
message of gratitude. Refer to the American Rose Society to
learn more about the growing conditions that best suit each
"old garden rose" variety and for more growing tips.
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