Well, it has been a minute since I posted. It was in late June and the title was BLOOM THYME: Beauty with Challenges . In a nutshell from that post some of our large challenges were stormy weather, raccoons and changes from RRD. You can read about those challenges and more; plus see the fresh blooms of the early summer garden HERE.
I’ve decided that when the “heat” is on like it was this summer … well, it not only slows down the plants, it slows down the gardener! It’s cool now so, let’s catch up.
JULY: FIREWORKS AND FAMILY
July was fantastic, our country turned 250 years old and we had the pleasure of spending time with all our family in one place. IYKYK It doesn’t get any better than that! In the garden it was heating up but there were plenty of blooms to enjoy!
Dreamland Coral Zinnias – a FAV!Herb garden DillEntrance to Herb GardenBokay to share
AUGUST: SOME LIKE IT HOT
But not that hot! I truly do love warm, sunny weather but August was a test — SUPER hot and dry. This weather made us so happy that in 2024 Mr. G started adding some drip irrigation to the garden. This year he added more and there are plans for even more next year. At this stage of our garden and life, we travel more and have less time and energy to devote to the garden. So “automatic” water from wherever we are is such a treat to the gardener and the garden. Mr. G is very happy with his irrigation app and so our the plants.
While it has been hard to see some of our foundational shrubs get crispy far too early, look at those blooms below… obviously for those getting some water the heat was much more bearable. Now for the gardener…. she stayed inside for most of August… not the kind of weather to work out in! Better safe than sorry.
Is this heat a trend and something that will become our new normal? Time will tell. If so, it is good to note who did well and who didn’t! All of these were where they received water from the irrigation.
These guys did quite well!
Love this combo… Coneflower & PhloxVanessa Bell ⭐️Cleome: Senorita Rosalita keeping pollinators happy!Summer AbundanceElizabethThe FaunPotting Shed Window Potting Shed Window
SEPTEMBER: COMING OUT OF THE HEAT WAVE
For quite a while September was content to be August with all the heat. Many plants were still on break and I didn’t blame them! But there was always something in bloom to enjoy and I certainly took note of what was performing during that time to be sure we have them again next year!
Throughout the season we had more hummingbirds than ever before and I attribute that to some of the plantings we did up close to our patio and out in the borders … Rockin’ Playing the Blues Salvia, Rockin’ Blue Suede Shoes Salvia, Cleome Sentorita Rosalita and Lantana. Show stoppers all season. Absolute must for next year. If you don’t grow those salvias yet… take a look at them – drought resistant and deer resistant blooming machines!
🌹When you see the large bokay below, know that it took almost every rose in the garden! I was asked to bring an arrangement to the IL IN District Rose Show… and I did.
Mother of Pearl … all summer longThe Fawn … all summer longFire Light Tidbit & RPTB Salvia Petite Peach – all summer longLantanaCleome Senorita RosalitaFirst you make a mess, then….Arrangement for District Rose Show
THE FAUN
Several have asked me about THE FAUN. Here is a video I did two years ago … she is the same each year… gorgeous. LINK
Heirloom has her, but you might have to get on the waiting list.
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER: Better Weather and Big Changes
A lot going on and changes to the garden are happening. But more about that later. Hoping this good weather continues!
How was your summer? Hot, cold or just right?
Until next time friends, let’s all bloom where we are planted.
What? It’s Almost July! June was a blur. It sure has been busy around here.
This season has had it challenges but there has also been an abundance of beauty! Before we look at the beauty, let’s talk about some challenges (in no particular order).
CHALLENGE # 1: STORMY WEATHER
In the good news and challenge column…
Rain has been abundant and the roses have loved that! Many areas of the garden were flooded at times but we are always grateful for rain! However, storms have been more plentiful too with wind and hail. Have you ever seen a patch of Lamb’s Ear after a hail storm. Now to see how that recovers. Leaves of every kind took poorly to being pelted. More hail was predicted this week but the storm never materialized, however plenty of rain has come. Pssst … it is raining now and more is predicted for tomorrow.
Lambs Ear post hail storm.
CHALLENGE # 2: SUN/SHADE
Another challenge in my garden this season has been to find enough sun for sun loving flowers to thrive and to find shade loving flowering shrubs and flowers. Those itty bitty trees we planted 20 and 30+ years ago are becoming the shade we “dreamed” of for the west facing back yard with the blazing sun. The flowers we have now would probably have voted differently on whether or not to plant those trees. 🤷🏼♀️ 🌲🌳🌹🌸
QUESTION: What is your most shade tolerant rose or other flowers?
CHALLENGE # 3: RRD
One of the biggest challenges I recently faced was Rose Rosette. Last year I found RRD in my garden in the beautiful border of Sweet Drift leading up to one of the large arbors. A border that has been there for many years and looked perfect.
Please don’t let my experience discourage you from growing the amazing Sweet Drift rose. It is truly a fabulous rose. Rose Rosette Disease is unpredictable and random in the plants it affects. While I haven’t had a ton of RRD, through the years I have had it pop up in several different roses varieties and several different areas of the garden.
Upside: Once the diseased roses were removed it started the creative juices and I redesigned that garden space. As I watch it grow and fill in, I am very happy with the results. Gardens and gardeners do not stay the same. Both are ever-evolving. As creatives we can celebrate that and let even “forced” changes inspire us to enjoy creating new spaces. There is no shortage of inspiration, designs AND PLANTS!!
NOTE: You can find the latest information on RRD … HERE.
CHALLENGES #4 & 5: DEER AND WINTER EXTREMES
Between the deer munching and the up and down temps of our winter weather, including a late season freeze, the large arbors were not covered with beautiful rose blooms this season. The only one that had at least a few canes survive to the top was Jasmina. So we are celebrating her!
Upside #1: The beautiful Etoile Violette clematis that I have on each of those arbors had their time to shine. Etoile Violette needs to be cut down each year anyway so is not bothered by what is going on at the top of the trellis. She quickly scampered up and over the trellis to cover them with her beautiful deep purple blooms. Yes, she having her time in the limelight. 💜
Upside #2: Peggy Martin seems quite refreshed with her forced “rejuvenation prune” and has already scampered back up to the top and is starting over.
Mr. G has a plan to help Peggy and the others in the deer department by trying an electric winter deer fence around the main cottage garden area! And, we will hope winter holds off on her late freezes! 🥶 🤷🏼♀️
Jasmina & Etoile Violette
MAY AND JUNE BLOOM THYME:
Here are some of the blooms bringing joy this season.
Eustacia Vye – What fragrance!1st Bloom: Bring me SunshineEarth Angel Summer Romance with Veilchenblau in backgroundSummer Romance Music BoxPoseidonReminiscent PinkQuietness
Above and Beyond! So well named! For a one-time bloomer, she blooms for such a long time. Our neighbor had several of her senior pictures taken in front of these blooms! Thank you Dr. David Zlesak for this gorgeous rose. ⭐️ I saw Above and Beyond for sell this year at Lowes!
ROSE CHAT
There’s always so much to learn about roses, and each guest brings a wealth of insight from their part of the rose world that informs and inspires us!
Recent Chats…
Carolyn takes us through the history of fragrant roses, exploring their significance from centuries past to the present day and the science behind the fragrance factor. Carolyn also highlights roses that have earned prestigious fragrance awards, and she and Teresa will share their personal fragrant favorites. Join us as we celebrate one of the most cherished attributes of the rose.
Rhonda and I chat about her new book GARDEN FOR LIFE: Strategies for Easier, Greener, More Joyful Gardening as We Age. Drawing on a lifetime of gardening experience and her gift for storytelling, Rhonda shares practical ideas, helpful information, and inspiration for gardeners who want to continue enjoying the hobby they love at every age and stage of life.
🌹If you are working in the garden and need some rosy inspiration, find all the latest podcasts HERE…
KNOW SOMEONE??
If you have someone you think would be a great guest for Rose Chat, let me know! I’m already making plans for 2027!
Friends, I hope you are having a wonderful growing season and enjoying time in your garden. And DID YOU KNOW….
Screenshot
This is from one of my favorite IG accounts. Is it true?? Well, I hope so! 😉
From my previous notes… this year the garden started coming back about 3 weeks early! Bringing to light an extreme case of Trust Issues with Spring” – “how much to trust it.”
Just as we suspected, that new growth slowed down a bit due to some frosty nights. Warmth returned! Growth returned.
Surely that was it. Spring’s here now! Right?? In our hearts we’re ready to meet spring full on and start planting all the plants we’ve been gathering – but those trust issues held held us back – barely.
We were right to be concerned. Cold came back. This week. Back down into the 30s. Sigh. May is around the corner and that May 10 “Last Frost Date” is looking to be right on schedule. Once again having trust issues with spring pays off.
Despite the forecast, live like it’s spring.”
― Lilly Pulitzer
HAPPENING IN THE GARDEN THIS WEEK
The gardener may be waiting but the garden is not. They are responding to that early ground warm up. We now have spring blooms of course but we also have peonies, a few old garden roses and a few blooms on clematis. SOOOO Early. Case in point… the peony below is Beautiful Senorita and she bloomed last year on May 17. 😳😳
🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱
Last week I finished up rose pruning and started fertilizing. The last work was on the big arbors. Between the weather and the deer we suffered much damage that had to be removed. 🥺 Poor Peggy Martin – she suffered greatly. The shrubs are still strong but they most likely won’t get to completely cover the arbors with blooms this year. It will be up to the clematis to make a statement! I’m sure they are up to the task. It’s not their first rodeo. And I suspect they are celebrating being disliked by deer.
All the deer damage and the ticks the deer bring with them has Mr. G plotting his next move to protect the main part of our garden. Looks like he’s leaning toward putting up electric fencing for the winter. Our property is too large to protect it all but it would be so nice to have spaces they can’t get to!
Regarding deer and ticks… listen to my podcast with Dee Nash… who developed Alpha Gal from Lone Star deer tick bites. White tail deer are their primary hosts! LISTEN HERE.
POTTING SHED PUTTERINGS
My “crops” in the potting shed this year were Lisianthus and Foxglove and they loved getting all my attention!
Seedlings are making their way in the world as I’ve started the hardening off process. In and out for a week to toughen them up and out they go! We have been together all winter, we are a tight clan at this point. Can’t wait to see them do their thing! 🎓💐
NOTE: For the Lisianthus I did two things differently than previous years. I planted them 3 weeks earlier (January 1) and was more consistent with fertilizer. I usually have 3-4” plants to plant out but this year they are 7” tall! The fertilizer I have always used on them is Epsoma Grow (1/2 Strength)
ANOTHER NOTE: The Lisianthus I grew using the broadcast method did much better that those I sowed individually in cell trays. I first heard of this method of seed sowing from the greats on Gardener’s World (British Gardening Show). Carol Kline said don’t worry about planting them too close… sharing space makes roots stronger. When I “prick” them out I am amazed at the roots! (see image below)
Sown in seed cellsBroadcast in little containers.
NEW PODCAST!
I am so excited to tell you about my good friend Paul Zimmerman’s new podcast A WORLD OF GARDENING . Available on Podbean and most podcast apps.
Few bring as much to the rose world or gardening world in general as Paul. Three decades of growing roses, international garden traveler and garden tour host, garden designer, and vast plant knowledge. Paul not only wrote the “book” on growing shrub roses… EVERYDAY ROSES, he coined the phrase that roses are “just blooming shrubs” making me and many others think differently about all roses. For more about Paul check out his website here. There’s even info about upcoming trips he’s hosting.
BACK TO PAUL’S PODCAST…
Paul begins each episode with PAUL’S JOURNAL where he takes a few minutes to share what’s going on in his garden, gardening in general and of course roses too. This is not to be missed.
Here is a link for the first episode. And, yes… I was one of the first guests. Such fun!
Our delightful Rose Geek, Kimberley Dean, has released a new website…
MyRoseTracker.com takes the guesswork out of finding the roses you love. Instead of hopping from nursery to nursery, you can see what’s in stock—across multiple vendors—all in one place, with fresh updates every day.
It’s more than just a search tool, too. With a subscription, you can keep track of your own rose collection, map out your garden, monitor plant health, and follow a personalized care plan to keep everything blooming beautifully.
Whether you’re hunting for a dream rose or tending the ones you already cherish, MyRoseTracker is here to help your garden grow and thrive.
I am having so much fun with this season of Rose Chat … learning a bunch too. You can find all the episodes HERE.
LATEST EPISODE…
BUILDING A BETTER ROSE SOCIETY Beverly Rose Hopper
Beverly and her team are doing great things with their rose society. A society that was on the brink of closing down forever. Listen in for some great tips and inspiration! To see more about what’s going on at the Mother Lode Rose Society hop over to their website HERE.
NOTE: If you haven’t watched Beverly’s garden tour on the Dig, Plant, Water, Repeat You Tube show… you can do so HERE. It is an amazing garden. The mass plantings of roses is spectacular!
🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱 🌱
Friends, I hope you are having a wonderful growing season. As I write, I’m looking out my kitchen window to a garden that is vibrant green from the rain and full of promise with all the bud-filled beauties. The season for Fireworks and Fragrance in the garden is about to begin. Nothing quite like that first spring bloom thyme after winter! So grateful…
“Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed.” – Genesis 2:8
What a wonder-filled season this has been. We’ve been traveling, and our time with family has been so very special. While we are grateful for all the gifts of modern communication, this was a year we had all the in-person hugging!
From the English Countryside to the foot of the White Mountians in New England … we have been with wonderful people and have seen some amazing places.
THE BRIGHT…
Is it cold where you are? Are you snow-covered? My word! This week we woke up to -4 degrees after a day with 5″ of snow! Yes, December has been quite a jolt. If it’s going to be winter, snow sure helps! It sure makes the winter garden look beautiful and bright!
Looking for the bright inside, we went with loads of pine cones, twinkle lights, candles and gardeny ornaments we bought in England.
GARDENING…
My biggest tasks these days are potting up bulbs. I decided to plant some of my amaryllis and paper whites in glass containers with pebbles and water. First time to try this. These join my orchid and a few other things in my most sunny window! If all goes well we should have blooms for a good long while.
POTTING SHED PUTTERINGS…
My time in the Potting Shed now mostly consists of cleaning, organizing, and the glorious task of going through my seeds. Awww seeds. I’ve already placed a few orders but my plan is to be more judicious about how many seeds I buy and start this year. Sounds like a good plan, we’ll see how that goes! 😉 The longer winter goes – the longer my wish list gets.
I’ll report back in January when the first seeds are sown. I’ll start with Lisianthus. It takes a long, long time for them. If you want to grow them – buy seeds now! I have always bought mine from Johnny’s. They have a nice selection. (Check them out here.)
RECENt ROSE CHAT PODCASTS…
A BLOOMING FUTURE FOR ARS & ARC Carrie Bergs, American Rose Society Vice President Marilyn Wellan, American Rose Center Committee Chairman
There was much to chat about on this one! We talked about the upcoming separation of the American Rose Society and the American Rose Center and the vision to ensure a strong foundation for both. If you’ve heard bits and pieces of what’s going on and have questions, this will provide the answers. LISTEN HERE
LANDSCAPING WITH ANTIQUE ROSES Mike Shoup LISTEN HERE
PLANT HYBRIDIZATION: ROSES & MORE Dr. David Zlesak (What an impressive career!) LISTEN HERE
Rose Chat is on holiday / planning break. I am happy to report I have several guests ready to go. Some are repeat favorites and some are brand new. It is shaping up to be a very rosy year! So stay tuned. While you’re waiting, there are so many great ones recorded and just waiting for you on our website… RoseChatPodcast.com.
Merry Christmas Friends
I pray that this season you are surrounded by those you love and filled with joy as we celebrate the birth of the child that came to “fit us for heaven”.
“Fit us for Heaven” is taken from one of my favorite Christmas Carols – “Away in a Manger”. I think of all the times I’ve heard young children sing this song at their nativity programs. Is there anything more precious than a child’s nativity program?
This song’s Biblical basis is Luke 2:4-7 and is often considered a lullaby. It is sure soothing to me.
Lyrics…
Away in a manger, No crib for a bed The little Lord Jesus, Laid down His sweet head The stars in the bright sky, Looked down where He lay The little Lord Jesus, Asleep on the hay The cattle are lowing, The Baby awakes But little Lord Jesus, No crying He makes l love You, Lord Jesus, Look down from the sky And stay by my side, Until morning is nigh Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask You to stay Close by me forever, And love me I pray Bless all the dear children, In Your tender care And fit us for heaven, To live with You there
Well, I made it. I made it through that September transition that has me saying things like, “I hate fall.” I really don’t, I just hate the “realization period” where I know the growing season is coming to an end – and just when the weather is getting so much better!!! Those of you in the south probably don’t have Septemberitis. Luckily by the 3rd week of September I am “righted” again and start embracing the changes, start seed collecting, drying flowers and move to the creative process of assessment and planning for the next season.
Another thing that helps me adjust to fall is something I picked up after my first visit to England I adopted their use of the word Autumn and all things Autumnal. Autumnal… what a beautiful word.
Autumn is Mr. G’s favorite season so, this year he is providing me with a Fun Fall To Do list. For all my friends who are SPRING and SUMMER lovers, it is nice to have someone in your life pointing out all the wonderful Autumnal things so we don’t miss them. Notably trips to the orchard! Then there’s all the seasonal flavors in drinks and pastries. Leaf shapes and colors. Hot chocolate. And pinecones. I do love pinecones!
COMING IN … AND OUT FAST
Is it me or was this growing season the fastest ever! Even with the rains of spring and the drought and heat of summer, it was a wonderful season of coffee on the patio, dinners outside by the Mother of Pearl Roses, morning garden walks to see what was blooming, little boys playing in the garden, bokay making, friends in the garden, butterflies dancing and birds. I will miss all those things when Indiana turns dark and cold. Good thing I have loads of pictures.
While I’m still enjoying all the garden has to offer, I’m ready to take a “real” look at this growing season. We had a few challenges like rain, drought, and raccoons but the biggest challenge was …
ROSE MIDGE
About mid summer I noticed fewer and fewer blooms on some of my roses. Others seemed to be fine. Then I saw it.. that unmistakeable sign of Rose Midge – what looks like a burnt match stick where a bloom should be. If you have ever dealt with midge I know you are sighing with me now. It is the worst. It is a bloom thief and it will ravish your rose garden leaving it with no blooms if you don’t take action. As a rule I don’t spray for insects in my garden. UNLESS there is something horrible going on and this year we had the most horrible ROSE MIDGE come to call. It requires action and treatment. Rose expert John Hefner wrote a great article on midge and the treatment. Read that article here. If you are dealing with midge, I am so very sorry and all the best!! And, if you have found a way of dealing with this horror not mentioned in John’s artilcle please let me know!
I have been growing dahlias for about 5 years and the first 3 years were fantastic. The past two not so much. Many of the dahlias I have received were not the ones I ordered. Very frustrating. This year the dahlias have been so slow to bloom. I started my dahlias inside early and set out large plants in mid May. Maybe they didn’t like the heat. I get it … I know I didn’t either. Now that the cooler weather is here they are starting to do that massive flower thing and are blooming like crazy! And that’s a good thing because I I was beginning to question whether or not I would plant any next year. I have grown as many as 20. This year 12. But, next year .. I don’t know. Who am I kidding… I’m not done with them YET. I already have some on order. 😏 Hope springs eternal for gardeners. I am very interested is shorter ones for bokays. Any suggestions?
ZINNIAS
My word there are some amazing zinnias out there these days with blooms that rival dahlias!
It has been a “different” year with my roses. For the first time many of them had drip irrigation and we were working to get that just right. Then there was the horrible heat! Several of my roses went to sleep. Then we were invaded by Ms. Midge. But many of them were outstanding!
Here are some of my 2025 favorites (Some are new to the garden some have been here for years!)
Elizabeth (DA) (Favorite David Austin)
Mother of Pearl (She never stops!)
Moonlight Romantica (The fragrance!)
Sweet Mademoiselle (2nd year was outstanding – that color!)
Bolero (Love Love Love everything about this one.)
Therese Bugnet (Often the first to greet me in spring with beauty and fragrance!)
SavannahSweet Mademoiselle Mother of PearlBoleroElizabethThe FawnMoonlight RomanticaVeranda CreamAll roses QuietnessPlum PerfectTherese Bugnet & neightobrs in May
ROSE CHAT PODCAST
It has been such a special Rose Chat year. I have had the pleasure of chatting with so many of my favorites! If you’ve missed any of the episodes, they are all online at RoseChatPodcast.com. Typically, there are two each month and are released on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. I’ve already started making plans for 2026. Do you have suggestions for guests you’d enjoy? Email me!
RECENT PODCASTS
RESTORATION ROSE Susan Lyell Young, Grower and Maker Listen Here.
Dr. WALTER VAN FLEET: From Medicine to Roses Connie Hilker, Heritage Rose Foundation Trustee Listen Here
TIME TO DOWNSIZE MY GARDEN Dee Nash, Gardener, Writer, Podcaster, Garden Coach Listen Here
I hope you are enjoying all that autumn has to give us as the work of the garden slows and the hues intensify.
Presently we are enjoying the tiny Honey Locust leaves falling like snow out our window while we eat breakfast. Yes we don’t want to miss a thing. While it won’t ever be my favorite, I’m here for all those Autumnal vibes.
A few weeks ago I started this post but it began very differently. There were sighs, laments and serious whining about the heat! This week all that changed! Highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s … with one night dipping down to 49. Oooooo That is a little low for me this time of year. 😳 Around here we are advocates for long, long autumns where the roses get to have a beautiful fall flush. And we pick flowers for months. More weather trauma… oh how we need rain!! Things are getting scary dry. I am even fearful for some of our large trees. 😕 Soooo very glad we added some irrigation this spring for some of the areas and are adding more this fall!
As you turn the page on the calendar and it says SEPTEMBER, are you shaking your head and saying, “where did the summer go?!? If you are you are not alone. It was a fast one. And, if you don’t talk about weather, around here it was a fabulous one! A summer of family, friends, travel, flowers and loads of fun.
I have moved to that gardening stage of ‘reflecting and taking note’ that comes with the end of summer. Deciding what worked and should be repeated AND what didn’t work and what areas need a tweak! I’m taking loads of pictures so I don’t forget the details. I will print those pictures and use them when I get down to serious planning. Those physical pictures are a great help! If you aren’t aware, WalMart does photo printing that is so easy, cheap and fast. I print a ton of pictures!
In an upcoming post I’ll talk about the Hits and Misses for this growing season, but for now…
LET’S TALK ABOUT ROSES
While walking through the garden this week it occurred to me that many of the roses I can’t stop talking about because they are bringing me such joy this year are Meilland Roses and Kordes Roses.
MEILLAND ROSES I GROW…
(To see the rose, click the link. The number beside the name indicates how many I have – if I have multiples.)
As many of your know Meilland Roses is a French company with a rich history. Starting in 1850. They have given us iconic roses like the Peace Rose (Link to Article about Peace), the popular Eden Rose, the gorgeous Francis Meilland Rose, the Romantica Series, the Drift series and so many of the modern roses that I am falling in love with.
To see the complete list of Meilland Roses sold through Star Roses and Plants, read on here.
KORDES ROSES
The Kordes Company is an award winning German rose company known for hardy, disease-resistant roses. They are one of the first companies to stop spraying their rose fields to find the most disease resistant roses. They did so more than 30 years ago. I do find them to be more disease resistant and winter hardy for our growing zone (6a). I have grown so many beautiful ones through the years!
KORDES ROSES I GROW…
(To see the rose, click the link. The number beside the name indicates how many I have – if I have multiples.)
There are other roses from other growers that are big winners too and I’ll talk about them next time.
WHERE TO FIND ROSES
If you cannot find these roses locally, here is a list of where you can also look… (Link)
RECENT ROSE CHATS
This summer I have had some super fun and interesting guests! If you’ve missed an episode, here are recent ones. For others go to RoseChatPodcast.com.
PLAYING FAVORITES GUEST: Kimberley Dean, The Rose Geek LISTEN HERE
MINIATURE ROSES GUEST: Matt Douglas of High Country Roses LISTEN HERE
TIME TO DOWNSIZE MY GARDEN GUEST: Dee Nash LISTEN HERE
BLOOM THYME THIS WEEK
Mother of PearlPetite PeachRaspberry CupcakeLove Me Loves Me NotKoko LokoPomponellaClematis & one The Generous Gardener on topRugosa HipBee sleeping on ZinniaButterfly Loves ZinniasHerb Garden EntranceRaspberry Cupcake Up CloseBokay in Grandmothers Pitcher
SEASONS
As the seasons change let’s remember the true Master Gardener and His gifts to us…
Genesis 1: 14 Then God said, “Let there be lights in the sky to separate day from night. These lights will be used for signs, seasons, days, and years.
June is National Rose Month. What a perfect time to celebrate our National Floral Emblem!
Roses have a long and colorful history. Through the years they have been symbols of love, beauty, war and politics. Their beauty, romance, history and versatility is unmatched. She is the Queen of Flowers.
A FASCINATING JOURNEY
It took some time to find just the right flower to be our National Floral Emblem!
In 1901 President William McKinley sponsored the red carnation! While we don’t know too much about that, we do know quite a bit about the fight for the marigold!
On January 12, 1959, the president of the W. Atlee Burpee Co., David Burpee, wrote newly-elected Senate Minority Leader Everett M. Dirksen, proclaiming the virtues of the marigold and calling it “the flower of the people.” David Burpee was vigilant in the fight. He was known for using PT Barnum’s model for promotion and advertising — just like his dad! For nearly 10 years Burpee and Dirksen campaigned for the marigold. Ten years is dedication!
Many other flowers were considered too … there were even those who strongly suggested the corn tassel be our national flower. What?
A ROSE IS A ROSE IS A ROSE
While the debate went on for at least 85 years, we are so pleased with the final decision.
In 1986 President Ronald Reagan signed a resolution making the rose the national floral emblem at a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden…
“Americans have always loved the flowers with which God decorates our land. More often than any other flower, we hold the rose dear as the symbol of life and love and devotion, of beauty and eternity. For the love of man and woman, for the love of mankind and God, for the love of country, Americans who would speak the language of the heart do so with a rose.
We see proof of this everywhere. The study of fossils reveals that the rose has existed in America for age upon age. We have always cultivated roses in our gardens. Our first President, George Washington, bred roses, and a variety he named after his mother is still grown today. The White House itself boasts a beautiful Rose Garden. We grow roses in all our fifty States. We find roses throughout our art, music, and literature. We decorate our celebrations and parades with roses. Most of all, we present roses to those we love, and we lavish them on our altars, our civil shrines, and the final resting places of our honored dead.
The American people have long held a special place in their hearts for roses. Let us continue to cherish them, to honor the love and devotion they represent, and to bestow them on all we love just as God has bestowed them on us.
The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 159 has designated the rose as the National Floral Emblem of the United States and authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation declaring this fact.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the rose as the National Floral emblem of the United States of America.”
Thank you President Regan. It is our pleasure to continue to represent all aspects of the rose. Yes, the rose is in good hands with the American Rose Society and our local societies.
WHAT A PERFECT TIME TO… Join a local socia societyl and the American Rose Society.
IF YOU ARE LOCAL…
My local society is the INDIANAPOLIS ROSE SOCIETY where I am a past president and currently serve as the Website and Social Media chair.
🌹This is a fun, thriving society filled with rose growers of all ages and stages of growing. 🌹We have members growing a few roses and members growing hundreds! 🌹We have members who are just getting started and members who have been growing for more than 50 years. 🌹Our meeting are open to the public – except for some special events like member garden tours etc and those are reserved for members BUT they will be clearly marked as such! 🌹For $25 a year you get ALL the benefits.| 🌹Membership details HERE.
Great programs, good food, door prizes and plenty of rose talk! We end each meeting with a “round table” discussion where you can share your successes, failures, ask questions and experience help through the experience of others!
OUR IRS MEETING NEXT TUESDAY…
Click onto our website HEREand find out all the details about what to bring and how to RSVP. I know you’ll have the best time! 🎉
AMERICAN ROSE SOCIETY
For less than the price of a dozen beautiful vased roses, you can become of member of the American Rose Society and open up a world of history, education, projects, rose reviews, growing tips and so much more! And one of the very best things is the beautiful, award winning magazine AMERICAN ROSE that you can chose to receive either digitally or print. Details here.
We are so fortunate to have a historical organization looking out for the interest of the rose and those who grow her. The ARS’s rose roots run deep and wide!
EASY BREEZY… You can very qucikly sign up for the ARS free E-Newletter, The Fragrant Rose HERE. Do check it out!
ROSE CHAT PODCASTS
I have been having all kinds of fun talking to some of our leading rose experts! If you have ideas for future programs, please let me know! HERE
On this podcast I went back to the basics with Suzanne Gilbert, Past President of the Houston Rose Society and currently serving as secretary for the South-Central District of the American Rose Society. Today is the day for basic information that will be helpful to new rose growers as well as a refresher to those who have been growing for awhile. From choosing the right rose, to rose care and where to get ongoing information, Suzanne is the perfect person to speak to these basics as someone who began growing roses as a child and has grown roses is several growing zones.
In this episode I’m joined by Robin Jennings of Heirloom Roses. Join us as we dive into the beauty and versatility of climbing roses. From climbing roses’ rich history and how they’ve evolved, to tips on planting, pruning, and training, we cover everything you need to know to grow climbers successfully. We also touch on trending varieties, this year’s most popular rose colors, and what’s new at Heirloom Roses this season.
On this episode I’m joined by Gaye Hammond. Gaye will tackle two garden trouble makers, Crown Gall and Chili Thrips. It is hard to overstate the impact Gaye Hammond has had on the world of roses. Any time you have the opportunity to hear Gaye speak, we highly recommend you do! Roses and rose lovers have benefited greatly from the expertise and energy she gives every project … from her work with the Houston rose society – leading them into their becoming one of the largest and most active roses societies with a membership nearing 500 to RRD research, rose history, rose trials and more. Listen in as we benefit from the hours of research she puts into every project. Coming Sun, June 8 … HERE.
BLOOM THYME AROUND THE GARDEN…
We’ve had a rainy, cool season but blooms are coming! Over and over I am reminded of why I love spring so much. There is nothing like the fresh blooms and having an abundance to share.
Since I am still in the moving around some roses era, many are small and not making the garden impact they will in a year or two but each bloom reminds me why I added some new ones.
One rose that has completely stolen my heart is the oh so fragrant and beautiful Moonlight Romantica! Do you grow it. She’s new so time will tell how she does overall but her start is impressive.
The “companion” that grabbed my attention early on and still has it is the lupine you see in the image below that is paired with Moonlight Romantica and My Monet Weigela (Proven Winners)
Moonlight Romantica (Bloomable/Star)Sweet Drift BorderEustacia Vye (DA)Ghislaine de FeligondeEtile VioletteSweet WilliamQuietnessTiny Ghislane de Feligonde (I have 3)Plum Perfect, Vanessa Bell & QuietnessQuietnessMother of Pearl just getting startedPetite PeachVanessa Bell & QuietnessRainy DayCelsiana3rd Year Ghislaine & Dawlow’s EnigmaTherese BugnetAnother Petite PeachAt Last (Proven Winners)
Here the blooms are just getting started and there are many more to come!
May we bloom as the flowers and be an example of God’s grace to the world!
Yes, it is time for my annual award 🏆 proclaiming that I have indeed made it through the winter. When you live in a colder climate and are garden obsessed, these things are important.
There are plants in the garden that actually make me feel as though I have won a huge award for making it through another long winter.
MEET MY VOTING ACADEMY …
Mini Iris
Chocolate Chip Ajuga
Creeping Phlox
Dogwood blooms
I have all of these in several spots of the garden and every time I see them they make my heart sing! All of these on the list have a short blooming season but when they bloom they change the garden. Yes, the season has changed! So much garden bounty is coming.
While they have their place and are beautiful, tulips and daffodils just don’t say “you’ve made it” to me. They are a little too fond of winter for that. Especially daffodils.
DOGWOOD LEGEND
Have you heard the legend of the Dogwood tree? One of my first blog posts was about that legend… You can read the article HERE.
GARDEN GATE ARTICLE ON PEONIES
I love peonies and my peonies are all budded up!! Garden Gate has a great article in their newsletter on peonies. The article included many great tips on growing peonies and I especially like the information on how to save peony buds to have blooms later! HERE’S THE ARTICLE.
RECENT ROSE CHAT PODCASTS
BECOMING A BACKYARD ROSE HYBRIDIZER … Growing Roses from Seed Jeff Droullard, The Rose Dude
On this episode, I chat with Jeff Droullard, known on social media as The Rose Dude who has become a backyard rose hybridizer by growing roses from seed. Jeff is so enthusiastic about his hobby and is eager to inspire others! Growing roses from seeds is popular today and Jeff will take us step by step on how to be successful.
A ROSEY APPROACH TO TRENDS Rebecca Koraytem, David Austin U.S. Sales Executive
THIS PODCAST WILL BE RELEASED THIS WEEKEND …Sun, April 27
On this episode, I’m joined by Rebecca Koraytem of David Austin Roses. Rebecca shares with us how roses fit perfectly into the current home and garden trends. Trends are always a fun and fascinating subject especially anything rosy! It is always so fun to chat with Rebecca!
GARDENING FOR ALL AGES EVENT
If you are local… I’ll be at the Indianapolis Rose Society Booth tomorrow (4/26) selling Roses. Ohhhhh there are some beauties! DETAILS ABOUT GARDENING FOR ALL AGES HERE.
POTTING SHED PUTTERINGS
My babies are growing booth in the potting shed and in the “jugs” outside!
Potting Shed is a busy place!Potting Shed Porch
I planted Zinnias on April 14 and in two or three days they germinated and are steadily growing. Best of all, they don’t need any care from me!
The inside seedlings are on the inside / outside hardening off schedule.
First batch of gomphrena had a problem germinating and the new ones are going to need a boost to be ready for planting!
Purple Bell VineZinniaTiny Gomphrena Sugar /Spice marigolds
Onion Project
I love onions but have never had any luck with growing them. Garlic does well but onions – not so much.
This year I saw that Steph from Hooked and Rooted (LINK) was starting onions from seed using the winter sowing method. In addition, she admitted she had not had much luck with growing onions until she found YELLOW OF PARMA onions. So I tried it! Aren’t they just the cutest things!!! Look at those roots! Steph and I are growing in different climates but I sure hope they do well. Yes, I saw the pictures of her beautiful onions from last year and had a full-on case of plant envy.
They are some of the first things to go into the HERB GARDEN but they’ll have plenty of neighbors soon.
DO WE TRUST IT?!?
Everyone is talking about the weather! With the temps so high and no cold snap in sight, we are all tempted to plant the tender things like tomatoes! — especially tomatoes! But should we trust it? I don’t know. I want to believe and I’d sure love a jump start but I’m filled with memories of days like this…
Peonies April 24 – Last Year
🍅 🍅 QUESTION 🍅 🍅
I only grew two types of tomatoes this year from seed (Pineapple and Gardener’s Delight) so we will buy 2 or 3 others. What are your favorite tomatoes of the more common varieties you can find at the garden centers?
‘TIL NEXT TIME …
Well friends, we are truly at the stage where every day something new is popping up in the garden! Cleanup is just about done and now planting thyme begins. I love this part!
And just so you know… I think this little guy feels like he won an award too … as he feasts on the Chocolate Chip Ajuga!
Seems that often a long winter is paired with a long list of rose orders. I didn’t think I had many on order. Last week when Mr. G asked how many roses were coming this spring, I said oh not too many but then I started to list them – out loud. His response, “ooooo, that sounds like quite a few.” Gotta love him!! I doubt much I would say about the garden would surprise him at this point.
NOTE: Many of these choices were made based on fragrance and rose health! And, of course their beauty!
HIGH COUNTRY ROSES
Summer Romance (Link) Loves Me, Loves Me Not (Link) Reine des Violette (Link)
On this episode of Rose Chat, host Teresa Byington is joined by the dynamic duo of roses, Paul Zimmerman and Michael Marriott. Paul and Michael will tackle the very important subject of growing roses sustainably. They will walk us through steps to take to have beautiful roses without adding chemicals to your garden.
STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM TO YOU Tyler Francis & Brian Rhodes / Co-CEO’s of April & Ashley
On this episode, I chat with Tyler Francis and Brian Rhodes of Francis Roses about their new venture as Co-CEO’s of April & Ashley – a new source bringing farm fresh roses straight to your door. Tyler and Brain will take us on the inside track to share about their partnerships, techniques and unique processes to bring the very best.
BECOMING A BACKYARD ROSE HYBRIDIZER … Growing Roses from Seed Jeff Droullard, The Rose Dude
RELEASE DATE: Sun, April 13
On this episode, I’ll chat with Jeff Droullard, known on social media as The Rose Dude who has become a backyard rose hybridizer by growing roses from seed. Jeff is so enthusiastic about his hobby and is eager to inspire others! Growing roses from seeds is extremely popular today and Jeff will take us step by step on how to be successful.
A ROSEY APPROACH TO TRENDS Rebecca Koraytem, David Austin U. S. Sales Executive
RELEASE DATE: Sun, April 27
On this episode, I’m joined by Rebecca Koraytem of David Austin Roses. Rebecca will share with us how roses fit perfectly into the current home and garden trends. Trends are always a fun and fascinating subject especially anything rosy!
NEW FROM THE AMERICAN ROSE SOCIETY
The Fragrant Rose is an e-newsletter for folks interested in gardening and is chock-full of growing tips and information. Delivered FREE to your inbox!
I can tell you that as with all things “American Rose Society,” it is a beautiful and informative publication.
POTTING SHED PUTTERINGS
HEAD START ON DAHLIAS
Since our growing season is a bit short and I want dahlias as soon as possible, I start them EARLY! Some are already showing just the tiniest bit of green! 🌱 💚 🌱 💚 🌱
COSMOS
Same as with dahlias. If I don’t start early, we don’t get to enjoy Cosmos for very long and they are Mr. G’s favorites! 🌸 🌸 🌸
Baby CosmosBaby DahliaPurple Hyacinth BeanLate Bloomer in the Potting Shed
BIG PROJECT OF 2025: Front yard…
Removed 10 boxwoods (several had blight) and various others shrubs that were past their prime! The ugly, hard work is done and now the fun work begins.
SPRING THYME IS JUST THE BEST
A phrase that is heard often in our garden this time of year… “Oh come look at this!”
Every day in the garden I see something new. Sometimes it is something I “need” to do and sometimes it’s something just for my enjoyment! Like the Hellebores or Lenten Roses … Their name reminding us of the miraculous season ahead. A time to focus on the horror of the crucifixion, Christ’s love for us and the glorious joy and hope the resurrection brings. From Good Friday to Easter Sunday, we know a lot can happen in 3 days!
Friends, I hope this season is filled with moments of pure joy for you as we continue to have a front row seat to the many miracles of spring.
Sign up here: 
