Evelyn, my beautiful David Austin English rose loves her place in my garden. I thought she deserved the spotlight for her magnificent blooming performance. This climbing rose is the most fragrant rose in my garden, emitting a strong, fruity scent reminiscent of fresh peaches and apricots. The shallow, saucer shaped blooms form layer after layer of petals and are similar in style to an old rose. Her canes meander charmingly through my split-rail fencing intermingling with my delphiniums in the spring and my zinnias in the summer.
For such a delicate looking rose she doesn't flinch from the heat and continues to bloom throughout the summer. I love the soft apricot and pink blend in her petals. I just can't pass her by without stopping
to admire the b
eauty and delicious fragrance of this rose. She reminds me to stop for just a moment and take a rest from my fall planting.
According to the David Austin Handbook of Roses, he advises giving summer roses deep waterings, generous mulching, and regular slow release feedings.
In October, prune back about 1/3 of the rose bush. This encourages new growth and repeat flowering. Prune all weak and spindly growth. Deadhead as the season cools and new blooms appear.
If you'd like some great hands on experience with roses, join a local rose society.
Here's more information on growing roses in the low desert. Roses do take a little time and effort but, they provide so much pleasure!
