There is a long history of roses growing in Colorado. In 1874 Charlotte Hill discovered a fossilized rose leaf preserved in the Upper Eocene Florissant Formation some 34 million years ago. Now in the Smithsonian, the fossil rose Rosa hilliae is named for her. In addition, native species including mountain, Rosa woodsii, prickly rose, Rosa acicularis, and prairie rose, Rosa arkansana can be viewed from the plains to elevations up to 11,700 feet. Wild roses or “species roses” typically have a single, predominately pink flower. Old Garden Roses or heirloom roses are those cultivated prior to 1867. They have a strong fragrance but only bloom once a year.
Cultivated after 1867, Modern Garden Roses are those most familiar to gardeners.
The year 1867 is an important one in rose history, since it marks the debut of the hybrid tea rose. Tall and elegant, hybrid tea roses are by far the most popular rose grown. Available in a wide range of colors, hybrid teas produce individual long-stemmed blooms and flower repeatedly during the season.
You can even find hybrid tea roses named for celebrities, such as Judy Garland, pictured here. In addition to hybrid teas, modern garden rose varieties include climbers, David Austin, shrub roses, miniature roses, grandifloras and floribundas.
When it comes to growing roses successfully in Colorado, it's important to choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sun every day, away from trees, shrubs and perennials that compete for sunlight, space and nutrients. Provide adequate space between rose bushes. They don’t do well when crowded together. Prepare the planting site by adding locally produced organic materials. Roses need well-amended soils in order to establish strong root systems and achieve vigorous growth and bloom potential.
Planted now, roses will establish well and provide color to your garden for many seasons to come.
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