22,795 Garden Web Discussions | Roses
I am dying to try some roses on fort. From what I've read, it's just a much more robust root structure so it can push the scion to new levels. It's also preferred here in the south. There are a few nurseries that sell it, I will be trying to get there this winter. I actually have a fort plant in my yard. It used to be Touch of Class....
How interesting. Ann your posts seem to be sending me on google treks lately!
Here is a link that might be useful: A previous discussion of facination on GW
The same mulching I used in Fl., I now use it up here in N.E. GA. It's a little work in the spring but the results are fantastic. I get my pine needles from Lowes for about $3.50 a bale (then 10% discount for military vet). Oak leaves I get from me and both neighbors. I also use the oak leaves for winter protection in the garden.
I get shredded tree mulch from a local tree-service, they bring me truck-loads for FREE...and free is good! It's cheaper for them than paying at the land-fill....and they bring oak or pine, not junk stuff... I have a huge pile in my drive-way right now, waiting to be hauled off to my beds....sally
If a cane is exceedingly tall, like over 5 or 6 feet and sticks out above the majority of the rest of the plant, you could trim it down to the height of the rest of that bush. That way it won't blow around and possibly break over winter. But wait to do this until after the plant has gone dormant. Otherwise for any hard pruning it's best to do it in the spring.
My Scottsdale garden is about 50-50 OGR and hybrid teas. The problem with OGRs is that you will need to buy a smaller own root plant which takes a year or more to get going, so I would stick to hybrid teas from local nurseries.
This is the perfect time to plant but be wary of stock that has been in pots in Phoenix all summer. I love Baker's nursery but I don't know if they get new stock in the fall. Try Berridge's nursery, which is in the same area, about Camelback east of 44 St. They always have potted roses.
If you can find it, Chrysler Imperial is a wonderful smelly red rose here, but I would mostly look for healthy looking plants in bloom and pick whatever appeals to you the most. Good luck - you are coming at the right time of year.
Liz
thanks all-- I was planning on buying from the Antique Rose Emporium so I do not have to rely on whatever is around at the garden centers there. Much better selection, and higher plant quality that can be guaranteed. Would like to stay away from Hybrid Teas if possible.