A Florist’s Guide to Old Garden Roses
Old garden roses, often revered for their classic beauty and enchanting fragrances, present a wonderful addition to any garden design. Unlike modern hybrid varieties, these roses often boast a rich history and a unique charm. Here’s a comprehensive flower delivery guide to understanding, selecting, and cultivating old garden roses.
Understanding Old Garden Roses
Old garden roses, also known as heirloom roses, typically encompass varieties that pre-date 1867. They can be divided into several categories:
Alba Roses: Known for their pale colours and strong fragrance, Alba roses are hardy and thrive in various conditions.
Damask Roses: Characterised by their stunning blooms and rich scent, Damask roses are excellent for perfume-making and often have repeating flowering cycles.
Gallica Roses: These are the most historical of roses, with a deep, rich colour and strong scent. They are usually resilient and can withstand harsher climates.
Moss Roses: Recognised for the unique mossy growth on their buds, these roses add texture and an enchanting aesthetic to gardens.
Centifolia Roses: With their lush, full flowers, Centifolia roses are often referred to as "cabbage roses" and are known for their exquisite fragrance.
Selecting Old Garden Roses
When choosing old garden roses for your garden, consider the following:
Climate & Soil: Assess the specific conditions of your garden. Some varieties prefer well-drained and fertile soil, while others are more tolerant of poor conditions.
Fragrance: Old garden roses are sought after for their delightful scents. Select varieties based on your fragrance preferences, whether robust, sweet, or spicy.
Blooming Habit: Some old roses bloom only once a season, while others have a more continuous flowering habit. Ensure you select varieties that align with your desired aesthetic throughout the growing season.
Foliage: The foliage of old garden roses can be just as attractive as the blooms. Look for varieties with healthy, lush leaves that complement the overall appearance.
Planting & Care
Proper planting and care are essential for the health of your old garden roses:
Planting: Choose a suitable location that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. Prepare the soil by amending it with organic matter and ensuring good drainage. Dig a hole that accommodates the root system and directly place the rose so that the graft union is just above the soil level.
Watering: During the first year, water regularly to establish roots. Once established, old garden roses prefer a deep watering regimen less frequently rather than shallow, frequent watering.
Pruning: Prune old garden roses after flowering to encourage growth and shape. Remove any dead or weak branches and ensure good air circulation to prevent disease.
Pest & Disease Management: Monitor for common pests such as aphids and discuss preventative measures. Old garden roses tend to be more resistant to diseases, but maintaining good air circulation and not overhead watering can help.
Florist tips
Old garden roses offer a timeless elegance and fragrance that can elevate any garden space. With their variety of forms and scents, they provide not just beauty but also a connection to the past. By understanding their specific needs and characteristics, you can successfully cultivate these stunning selections in your own garden, creating a fragrant haven of historical charm.
