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.
Let’s talk about the weather. Around here we went from flooding to heat wave in what seemed like a split second. June turned into August and watering was the name of the game. … and critters! Since we garden lovers water the objects of our garden affections. … the water deprived critters come calling. In our case this year it is been tons of raccoons. Our critter cam is filled with their antics. On one frame there are five! They are rototillers! Making a mess. They have torn through the cottage borders, breaking down blooms, broken limbs out of trees and scratched through the meticulously laid mulch. You know the drill.
BUT, that was NOT the most horrifying heat related experience I’ve had in the garden. One beautiful morning before it got tooooo hot I decided to do a mini photo shoot of my work area – THYME OUT. I took videos and stills and zoomed in on particular little areas. As I worked in this area I noticed something moving in my cute bird house Mr. G made for me. So I went to check it out… were there baby birds????? On closer inspection I found that no … there were NO cute baby birds but a snake! …. INSERT SOFT SCREAMS MR. GGGGGGG HELP!!! I “know” in my head that snakes do good things and are mostly harmless but that does NOT make me like them more or fear them less. Friends, this is the kind of “garden surprise” that could drive someone to put a FOR SALE sign in the yard. Well, not really but you get the picture. G came and poked about in the birdhouse and got him to come out a little bit but he was not leaving his “shady” house. Everyone and everything is trying to beat the heat.
How did this end? G and I hurried back inside to the air conditioning. We have no idea what happened to the slinky creature. I sincerely hope he found another home that offers more of what he wants and there aren’t any more such surprises for a while! I’ll be on my guard. 🫣
While we are talking about THYME OUT, here a few of the pictures I took before the terror began.
Snake Spa !!
PERFECT TIMING
Mr. G is truly the hero of the day (every day) but especially in this “heat” as he finalized the irrigation to several of our garden areas. So with the press of a button or using the iPhone app … all those babies get watered!
BEATING THE HEAT
LILIES
The lilies have been fantastic through the heat! They must have loved all the water because they are huge! I have felt like melting but the lilies continue on.
Here are some of the show offs this week. Many more to come!
INVINCIBELLE LACE HYDRANGEA
Invincibelle Lace is knocking it out of the park! This is a big surprise to me. I planted two of them in the dappled shade of a Sweet Bay Magnolia thinking they most likely would not get enough light to be as pretty as I wanted them to be next to our sun porch. But that was not the case. Look at them! This is one of the amazing hydrangeas from Proven Winners.
SUMMER HAIR CUT
The roses are through their first flush and I have given them their summer hair cuts so not too many blooming right now. But, there’s always a few to enjoy!
BLOOM THYME…
Earth Angel not stopping!The first! Miss Manners ❣️Herb Garden SavannahNiobe clematisBoleroCathedral BellsBlue Angel & Jackmanii ClematisPhlox
ROSE CHAT PODCAST
I have had some fabulous guests on Rose Chat! Here are two of the latest…
IMAGE
CRITTERS & CRUD: Crown Gall & Chili Thrips Gaye Hammond, Master Rosarian LISTEN HERE
CERTIFIED NURSERIES Justin Valdez Director of Rose Research and Development LISTEN HERE
🎙️Coming up next … Natalie Carmolli of Proven Winners and Kimberley Dean, The Rose Geek! Stay tuned.
🌹As always with the podcast please share with those on your social media sites and in your newsletters! Help us get all the rosy info out!
Friends, let’s Grab some iced coffee or tea, and safely enjoy our summer garden season! For me right now … it’s early in the morning and late in the evening and very little in between!
“Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability” – Sam Keen
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.
Releasing Bloom Thyme Friday on Saturday is just par for the course around here right now. Almost three weeks ago Mr. G and I headed out for vacation to quickly return when Influenza A took hold. We spent our vacation time alternating the patient/nurse roles. 2 1/2 weeks later we came out of a fog to 70° temps and a garden filled with spring! During those days were a series of cancellations, postponements and running behind in a blur. We are glad to be back on the path to full health. Ms Influenza A is quite a character. She pulled many punches! I hope you manage to avoid her but around here she has been all too common. Be careful!
SIGNS OF SPRING
ASSESSING DAMAGE
Plenty of deer visited the garden this winter …. and I’m seeing some serious damage on many of the roses. Time will tell how the garden will fare as a whole. But, with many days at 70° spring is moving in fast. It’s amazing some of the roses are untouched either by deer or the extreme temps we’ve had.
Don’t the deer seem right at home just munching away on MY plants?! 😩😩😩
NATIONAL GARDEN BUREAU … THE 2025 YEAR OF…
Each year the National Garden Bureau selects one annual, one perennial, one bulb crop, one edible, one houseplant, and one shrub as our “Year of the” crops. Plants are chosen because they are popular, easy-to-grow, widely adaptable, genetically diverse, and versatile. YEAR OF 2025 DETAILS
The one I am most excited about is Calendula. I purchased a couple of new to me varieties that I am really excited about. And I know that a few of the Zeolights from last year will self sow too. For me they are very well behaved self sowers. Just enough. 🌱
From National Garden Bureau website…
Nature’s Sunshine: The Year of the Calendula
Overview and History…
Initially cherished by the Egyptians for its healing properties and beauty, Calendula found its way to Europe through Roman influence, swiftly gaining popularity as both a therapeutic herb and an ornamental gem.
Native to the sun-kissed Mediterranean region, Calendula has transcended borders to become a global favorite among gardeners, thanks to its resilient nature that thrives in diverse environments. Its name, derived from the Latin “calendae,” symbolizes its perpetual blooming cycle, with fresh blossoms unfurling each month in a vibrant display of nature’s artistry.
Calendula petals, beyond their visual splendor, serve as a source of yellow dye, earning the flower the endearing moniker “poor man’s saffron” for its ability to mimic the prized hue of saffron. This versatile plant not only graces gardens with its beauty but also offers practical applications in dyeing and culinary pursuits.
Here are a few fun facts…
GROWING TIPS
Calendula grows easily in full sun in any regular garden soil and thrives in a pH range of 5.5-7.0.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushy growth.
Occasional feeding is rewarded, but unnecessary.
Keep plants watered but avoid overhead watering as plants are susceptible to mildew.
Deadhead regularly to prevent self-sowing and continual blooms.
It does best in cool weather and may stop blooming in mid-summer heat. It will likely start to bloom again in the cooler weather.
CALENDULA I’M GROWING THIS YEAR
BRONZED BEAUTY and a PACIFIC BEAUTY MIX
The calendulas I’m growing are Bronzed Beauty and Pacific Beauty Mix. One of the reasons I’m excited about growing more calendula is that for some time I’ve been wanting to make some simple recipes that I’ve read about in a wonderful book — A WOMAN’S GARDEN … Grow Beautiful Plants and Make Useful Things by Tanya Anderson, Isle of Man, UK
This book is filled to the brim with inspiration, growing tips, recipes, DIY projects and the dreamy looking products she produces.
I first knew of Tanya when she appeared on Gardener’s World 5 years ago. In the episode we had a tour of her lovely allotment garden and heard about all the wonderful things things she makes with the plants she grows – everything from flavored vinegars to skin care products.
She is easy to find as she is active on Instagram and has a thriving You Tube presence. TAKE A LOOK HERE.
RECENT ROSE CHAT
WHY SPRAY WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE TO? Paul Zimmerman and Michael Marriott
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. LISTEN HERE
HC MASTER GARDENERS
What a wonderful group to be a part of. And, thank you for the opportunity to present a program last month. If you are local and want to join Master Gardeners … here is some information on upcoming basic training. DETAILS HERE
INDIANAPOLIS ROSE SOCIETY ROSE SALE
The Indianapolis Rose Sociey Rose Sale is still on! I’ve seen the list and there are still some wonderful roses left. Several are sold out but there’s still plenty of beauties available – at least today. First Come/First Serve. DETAILS HERE.
DREAMING OF ROSES
As I recuperated I’ve actually been doing more than dreaming … I’ve ordered a few! It was good therapy! But, oh my where will I put them! 😳 I’m working on that too. Let’s talk about that in my next post.
Scripture tells us that “to everything there is a season” and my favorite one is here!
Until next time friends, enjoy the miracles of spring!
Mocha Mousse, a warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort. – From Pantone website.
2025 Pantone of the year
Each year Pantone sets the color stage for design whether inside or out. Last year was Peach Fizz and I was a big fan of that especially outside with all the roses with peach hues –especially my newly released rose — Petite Peach. More about her here.
For this year it’s all about… Coffee. Chocolate. Comfort. I’m in.
All this talk about mocha mousse had me thinking about the rose Koko Loco (hybridized by Christian Bedard of Weeks Roses) that has been trending for several years. What a perfect time to jump into that trend with a rose in the same palette. So I ordered one from High Country Roses (LINK)
I don’t know how I have resisted this rose for so long. Beautiful!
Description on High Country’s website. Koko Loco: The cocoa is creamy like latte. But the latte goes loco to finish all lavender! You just can’t imagine a milky chocolate-colored bud would mature to be a solid soft lavender blossom. Early to bloom, every lovely bud spirals open with impeccable show form. The flowers last long on the plant and in the vase. Beyond its novelty, there lies a great plant….rounded, handsome & bushy…chock full of clean green leaves.
For more info on growth habit, etc or to see if she’s still in stock, read more HERE.
GARDEN TRENDS
Another early season treat is to see the House Beautiful garden trend list and here it is…
Chocolate Brown Tones
Cottagecore
Front Gardens (love it)
Waterwise gardening
Out with bedding traditional plants
Cutting Gardens: bring the outdoors in (YES)
Future floristry
Light-touch gardening
Brownfield gardening
Sustainable power tools
Greenhouse living
Seedling success: growing plants from seed is back in the spotlight (Yippee)
Bulbs in pots (I’m not the best at this.)
Homegrown produce
Edible landscaping
For explanations of each of these categories check out their article HERE.
SPRING ROSE CARE
I’ve recently had several questions about spring rose care and simple rose pruning tips. While it is certainly not one size fits all, here are my general tips. (For reference: I’m in Zone 6a.) Again these are basic tips on what I do.
WHEN: My rule of thumb for when to prune roses is when the Forsythia Blooms. The blooming Forsythia tells us that the ground temp has warmed to about 50 degrees. Here we can have temps that dip a bit but we usually do well with the Forsythia rule.
HOW: I cut out any dead, damaged or disease-looking canes, any canes that are crossing the center or rubbing against other canes. For height pruning … I prune the shrub about 1/3 of it’s size. You will also want to remove the leaves still clinging to the shurb and any that have fallen on the ground. 📸 GLAMOUR SHOT: To get her ready for glamour shots to come, after I prune I take a step back and look at the overall appearance, and using my creative license I make tweaks to get her looking just right. 😉
EXCEPTIONS…
GROUND COVER ROSES:
For ground cover roses I don’t worry too much about all those pruning details. I just shape it up and take it down a bit for size control. As you experience a season of growth, you’ll know how to prune it to get the shape you want. I have 8 Sweet Drift Roses (groundcovers) making a border. While they appear to have a tangled growth, when they bloom they are show stoppers.
CLIMBING ROSES:
Totally different pruning method. I think the best way to learn about this is to SEE it done. Garden Answer and Heirloom Roses have great videos on pruning climbing roses. Orange text denotes links!
OLD GARDEN ROSE, RAMBLERS (and other one-time bloomers):
No spring pruning! As with other blooming shrubs the rule is PRUNE AFTER BLOOM. Pruning in the spring will eliminate your spring blooms! If you want to shape up your plant do it immediately after blooming. NOTE: OGRs need little to no pruning. Just take out dead and diseased canes. Or the ones that are catching on your husband’s shirt as he mows the grass. Don’t ask me how I know. 🤦🏼♀️
NOTE: Don’t be afraid! It isn’t rocket science. I’ve made a million “mistakes’ and the roses always forgive and bloom in spite of the gardener. I remember the first time I saw Steve Hutton, then President of Star Roses, take electric hedge trimmers to Knock Out roses. Now you see many gardeners do that with more than just Knock Outs. I’m not saying I would do it, but I guess you could.
FERTILIZER: At the time of pruning, I fertilize per package recommendations. (RoseTone or Scott’s Rose and Bloom: Both are available at our Lowes and sometimes Walmart). The fertilizer doesn’t kick in until temps raise a bit more but it is convenient for me to do it at this time.
DORMANT SPRAY: Before leaves start developing we use a dormant spray. Through the years we have used several products. (Lime Sulfur, Captain Jack and Bonide products.) Jason from Fraser Valley Rose Farm has an excellent video on using dormant sprays that includes what to use and why you should proceed with caution when doing so. VIDEO LINK
MULCH: I add 3-4″ of mulch to help with water retention, weed supression and for beauty… mulch makes everything look so fresh and tidy. I know the roses appreciate it as they move to their time to shine!
If you have other specific questions leave me a comment or email me, I am happy to help!
UNINVITED GUESTS
We’ve had some uninvited guests… one tried to get his annual eye exam. Wrong “office” buddy.
They look right at home. 😱Looks 20/20 to me!
ROSE CHAT
Rose Chat 2025 has begun!
THE HERBAL PROPERTIES OF ROSES Jason Croutch, Fraser Valley Rose Farm
For thousands of years roses have been used for so much more than an ornamental plant. Join us as we take a look at the additional benefits of growing the Queen of Flowers.
NEXT UP is Leon Ginenthal to chat about SOIL & PLANT HEALTH – this one will be posted on Sunday, February 23.
WINTER SOWING
Winter sowing is now complete with 22 jugs! In many of the jugs I did sections to be able to plant more than one variety. I certainly don’t need a “jug full” of everythng I wanted to try this year! 😳
Love in a Mist: Mulberry Rose
Blue & White Alyssum
Calendula: Bronzed Beauty
Onion: Yellow of Parma
Strawflower: Red, Rose and White
Larkspur: Katy’s Picot
Gomphrena: Audray Purple-Red , Raspberry Cream, Lavender Lady and Las Vegas White
Marigolds: Sugar & Spice, Queen Sophia & Savannah
Rudbeckia: Sahara & Caramel Mix
Statice: Seeker Pastel Blue
Coneflowers: White and Mellow Yellow
Snapdragons: Apple Blossom, Royal Bride and Costa Velvet
Sweet Pea: Jewels of Albion
Rose Seeds: Tuscany Supurb
Bachelor Buttons: Cyanus Double
Canterbury Bells: Calyan Mix
Nasturtiums: Cherry Rose Jewel and Tip Top Pink Blush
Dara: Mixed
Columbine: Barlow’s Double Mix
Ageratum: Blue Horizon
Verbascum: Shades of Summer
Phlox: Sugar Stars
Lady’s Mantel
Spring winter sowing
I will begin “winter sowing” again in April to plant Zinnias, Cosmos, Tomatoes and Basil! It worked so well last year!
WHILE WE WAIT
As finish up this post today we are having a wintery mix – rain, ice, snow. Single digit temps. Yuk. BUT to those of you with colder winters, look at these pictures… they were taken the 3rd week of March last year! Our beauties are coming back!
Ignoring the weather outside, with every seed I sow I am giddy with anticipation of the miraculous new life that is to come. As gardeners we get to experience miracles most every day.
To everything there is a season but often it seems Winter tends to be a boundary pusher — we just have to keep the faith in the garden and out.
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