Growing Nostalgic "Old Roses" In Your Garden by Simonetta Jensen

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 select an "old rose" for your garden, begin by examining
your garden area and figuring out what roses work in that
area. For instance, some "old roses" bushes work best as
hedges while others prefer to crawl low as bed covers. Many
climbers first look like small bushes but climb well up
patios, sides of homes, and fences. Some other factors to
think about when picking and arranging "old roses" are
drainage, sunlight, shading, and insects. Most "old roses"
must be watered very frequently on a daily basis. Sunlight
is needed for about five hours a day for most "old rose"
shrubs; however, the mossy "old roses" want only shade.
Keep debris like weeds, rose petals or leaves away from the
"old roses" or the shrubs will look mil-dewy or ragged. Use
organic fertilizers to prevent damage and disease. Prepare
the soil properly to provide the right nutrients. Also,
prune deadheads, as these dead rose blooms tend to drain the
bushes energy away from more needed areas.

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, "old roses" should be
offered in bundle to convey the meaning of gratitude. Also,
"old roses" are best presented if trimmed in full bloom. To
read up on "old rose" varieties and growing tips, turn to
the American Rose Society.


Copyright 2005 Simonetta Jensen. All rights reserved.
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Simonetta Jensen is the webmaster and operator of Roses ABC Inc which is
a principal resource for information on roses and other flowers
on the internet. Visit her complete archive of articles here:
http://www.rosesabc.com/
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