HK florist guide to garden roses

As a florist, understanding the various rose varieties is like having a palette of colors to create your floral masterpieces. Roses come in a delightful array of forms, each with its unique charm. HK Florist looks into the ultimate guide to garden rose varieties:

1. Hybrid Tea Roses:

   • These elegant roses are the darlings of the cut flower world. They have large, single blooms with pointed edges and grow on long, sturdy stems—perfect for bouquets and arrangements.

   • History: The first hybrid tea rose, ‘La France,’ was introduced in 1867 by French breeder Jean-Baptiste Guillot.

   • Characteristics: Fragrant blooms in various colors—think pink, red, yellow, and white.

   • Care Tips: Plant in sunny spots, well-draining soil, and prune to encourage healthy growth.

2. Climbing Roses:

   • Ideal for vertical gardening, these roses add romance to walls, fences, or trellises.

   • Visual Appeal: Imagine cascades of blooms climbing up your garden structures.

   • Care: Provide sturdy support, regular pruning, and enjoy their stunning display.

3. Floribunda Roses:

   • These are like the party animals of the rose world—clusters of blooms in vibrant colors.

   • Characteristics: Smaller blooms than hybrid teas but abundant flowering.

   • Use: Great for mass plantings or borders in your garden.

4. Grandiflora Roses:

   • A blend of hybrid tea and floribunda, grandifloras offer large, showy blooms.

   • Best Feature: Long stems suitable for both cutting and garden display.

5. Miniature Roses:

   • Petite and adorable, miniature roses are perfect for small spaces or container gardens.

   • Charm: Mini versions of classic roses with tiny blooms.

6. Old Garden Roses:

   • These are the romantic souls—the heirlooms with rich histories.

   • Types: Damasks, Gallicas, Bourbons, and more.

   • Fragrance: Often intensely scented.

7. Shrub Roses:

   • Low-maintenance and hardy, shrub roses come in diverse shapes and sizes.

   • Landscape Use: Great for naturalistic gardens or mixed borders.

8. Wild Roses:

   • These are the rebels—the species roses found in the wild.

   • Characteristics: Simple, single blooms with a touch of wilderness.

9. Unique Rose Species:

   • Some roses defy categorization, like the ancient Rosa moyesii or the rare Rosa sericea pteracantha.

   • Adventure: Explore these lesser-known gems.

Each rose type has its own care requirements, so pay attention to sunlight, soil, and pruning needs. And don’t forget to inhale their fragrances—they’re the soul of any flower bouquet.