Shrub roses are celebrating fall with a big burst of end of the season color right now!
The American Rose Society describes shrub roses as “A class of hardy, easy-care plants that…..do not fit in any other category of rose bush.” They come in a variety of colors, have single or double blooms, may be highly fragrant or fragrance-free, may bloom once or may bloom repeatedly throughout the season, can be tall, can be short, or can even be used as ground cover. In other words, there is a shrub rose that can fulfill any need in the landscape. Like all rose varieties, shrub roses prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They tend to be disease and pest free (unlike the much planted Knock-out varieties) , but can become deer buffets! On the other hand, bees, butterflies and other beneficials also swarm to roses. If you love the idea of growing roses but were intimidated by them, add some shrub roses next spring. I think you’ll be amazed at how carefree they are.
