Performance variations of rose cultivars due to climate location

Abstract

Roses are said to vary in performance in different sections of the country. To determine the degree (if any) of variance, a survey was conducted obtaining ratings of a selected grouping of roses grown in all sections of the United States. This survey was conducted among members of the American Rose Society and other selected gardeners, who evaluated their roses in terms of performance in their own gardens. More than 5,000 rosarians participated, each reporting on an average of 25 roses. Some 450 roses introduced into commerce from 1962 through 1967 were included in the study.

For the purpose of the study the United States was divided into three major geographic regions. This report furnished a numerical rating based on a 10 point scale of all the newer roses now being grown in each region. The study listed with comments the higher rated roses in each horticultural class. Tables were used to present the cultivars from each region according to rank.

The study showed that the performance of most roses varies from one area to another. It was revealed, however, that basically the same roses proved to be the highest rated, and showed the best results in each of the three regions under study.

The report is especially valuable to amateur gardeners who wish to determine the value of specific cultivars for their own locale.