GARDENER'S READING ROOM
Roses
Trees & Shrubs

Roses Are Rising

I know that with this cool weather it may be hard to believe, but trust me when I say... THEY'RE HERE!!! The roses have arrived at Sky for the 2008 season, and we are working diligently to get them unwrapped and on the ground in time for you to plant this March.

As promised earlier on our web site, we are proud to bring you all your old favorites, but we are equally excited about some of this year's newcomers. At the top of the list is Jackson and Perkins 2008 Rose of the Year™, April in Paris, a hybrid tea rose. The offspring of Pristine and New Zealand, this romantic rose bears classic seashell buds that spiral open to the palest of dawn pink, edged in a solid pink. They bear an intense tea rose scent and are long-lasting in the vase.

Another selection to warm up your collection is the Catalina grandiflora rose, also from Jackson and Perkins. Ruffled apricot pink petals with a darker pink reverse add a romantic flourish to this vigorous rose. Classically shaped buds open into immense, petal-packed flowers on long stems. The finished blooms end in a clear pink with hints of yellow, resembling the shades of an island sunset.

Many of you have been won over by the durability and reliability of the Knockout Rose, and this year we will offer the full range of colors: Rainbow, Pink, Blushing and the original Knockout in cherry red. 2008 brings a new member to the Knockout family with Double Knockout. With its double petal blooms, it touts greater tolerance to shady conditions. Sounds like a winner.

These are only a few of the new introductions for 2008. You can preview the list of Sky's full 2008 Rose List by visiting our web page at www.skynursery.com. Or just stop by the information gazebo the next time you are at the nursery; we have plenty on hand. We strive to provide you with the best selection of roses in the greater Seattle area, however, supplies are limited to stock on hand, so don't wait too long. Take advantage of early availability and buy now; it's okay to plant later.

By Joe Abken
Skylights Spring 2008, Vol 23, No. 1

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