Roses

Roses have seemingly been enjoyed forever. Their blooms not only not only look divine, but their perfume can be heavenly. As Shakespeare wrote:

“The rose looks fair, but fairer we it deem
For that sweet odour which doth in it live” (Sonnet 54).

There are several local plant nurseries that can advise you about the types of roses that especially thrive in our region. However, before you have a conversation with the proprietors, it’s recommended that you have a good look at the following books about growing roses in Australia. These books can help you determine the rose characteristics you are seeking, inform you about when and how to plant roses, controlling pests and diseases, propagation, and more. These resources can often be found at your local library or from good book sellers:

• “Growing Roses” by Paul Haines
• “Growing Roses: A Complete Guide to Growing and Showing Roses in Australia” by A. S. Thomas
• “Rose Gardens of Australia: A Wealth of Knowledge, Pleasure and Inspiration” by Susan Irvine.

The ABC television show, “Gardening Australia” also has a wealth of information about roses on its website: https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/looking-after-roses/9431348

• Topics:

• My House My Home
• Gardening