My good friends at The Garden Conservancy just put out a special publication on preserving gardens in America. In one of the articles, Mac Griswold, noted landscape historian and author, observed that “gardening is the slowest of the performing arts.” And with the performing arts come Divas. Roses, bless their hearts, could be referred to as such. But the pleasures they bring make up for the maintenance they require.
In recent posts, I highlighted two rose features (the rose chain and the arch of roses) that truly make a statement here at Parterre. Now for an overview of where and how roses decorate our garden areas throughout the property. No surprise, as I become more and more besotted with roses, the Cutting Garden becomes less about all forms of cutting flowers and more about roses (of course, taking the place of former peony beds which now reside in the back courtyard across from the 80′ rose chain).
Always a favorite, and so reliable (and healthy!), ‘Julia Child.’
A closeup of 2 new David Austin stunners, ‘Ancient Mariner’ and ‘Pink Enchantment.’
The new rose trellis on the western side of the Cutting Garden well supports the bountiful climbers, ‘Deelish’ and ‘Souvenir de Baden-Baden.’
Directly across from the Cutting Garden, the rose ‘Falstaff’ shows off long trails of their rich crimson-merlot color.
I love their climbing habit, too, so we’re trying them on the western side of the Orangerie.
On the eastern side of this garden folly, ‘Eden,’ which has been such a bloomer on the rose arch, twines around the antique leaded windows (NOTE, one thing I’ve learned about climbing roses is that they enjoy being grown laterally).
But truly, the pleasure of snipping roses and filling assorted vases to place in as many spots around the house as possible is what it’s all about for me! Going out in the early morning to cut is the perfect way to start the day. Needless to say, I go into a bit of a slump between bloom periods…
Whether it’s ‘Eden,’
Or ‘Crown Princess Margaretha,’ I’m happiest when creating arrangements.
What are your favorite roses??
Bettie,
the pics of your roses in the sunlight is so cheerful after many days of rain. Although of course “it’s good for the flowers”. All the best, Julie Traub
Yes, Julie, you’re correct on both points! Stay dry, xB
Would you please tell me what you spray on your roses to make the foliage so healthy? Mine get chewed by green worms so that the foliage looks terrible while the roses are in bloom. It is only after bloom when I cut them all the way back that I get healthy foliage. Your secret?
Thank you, Susan
I’ll have to ask my rosarian, but I’m going to guess that it’s about the timing of the sprays, not which ones. I don’t think there are lots of options…xB
Enchanting! Ellen Easton
Merci! B
Exquisite! What fertilizer do you use? Our big climber, 2 fragrant varieties, developed black spot after 2 weeks of rain! I used my Neem oil concoction on it, but it kept spreading, & losing leaves, so I got some chemicals, hope to save it! There are a few leaves & blossoms, but they are small, so I know it’s struggling.
Sounds very familiar, Miri, we’ve had the same problem here.
I’m sure it has to do with so much rain, and no sun! xB
Many happy memories of good times together. Your garden in “The Top”
Thank you, dear Elsie, how many years have we been enjoying gardens together?! xBettie
Bettie – your garden is always such a treat, truly spectacular! And your photos as well, I always look forward to your Thursday blog. Thank you for keeping everyone’s spirits up for the last year – it was the best medicine yet❣️
Thank you ever so much, Pat, for these kind words! We all learned a lot this past year, but especially the power of gardens and their beauty: I had little idea just what my simple blog was providing readers until all these gorgeous comments started coming in. Hoping you’re enjoying this welcome, almost normal summer! xB
Your roses are all so incredibly healthy! So lovely in all of their colors and varieties, dear Bettie. Your entire garden is delightful. It must bring you such joy and pride every day.
Pride and joy describes my feelings exactly! Thank you for being so intuitive….B
I love your garden Bettie, and these roses are all so gorgeous!! The peach ones in your arrangement take my breath away! My favorite rose is a white one, which bush came to us from my in-laws when they moved. Nobody know what it’s called, but they think it has Jardin in the name! 😉 Thanks for sharing yours with us – I do love the Austins!
In zone 5, hybrid roses are out, so I grow David Austin rose with success. Japanese beetles really did a number on the buds before I got the right spray.
Happy to hear this…might you share the spray with me, and I can pass along this important product to my readers? xB