It's said that there are only two kinds of people: Those who grow roses and those who wish they did! The Earthkind rose program is for everyone, even those with the proverbial black thumb. To earn the Earthkind designation, a rose must perform very well (note: very well not just well) with a minimum of care.
EarthKind roses are selected to almost thrive on neglect, according to Dr. Steve George, a Texas Cooperative Extension horticulturist at Dallas.
George started the EarthKind rose movement to provide Texas homeowners beautiful, almost maintenance-free roses. Those making the EarthKind cut are hardy, long-lived and easy to grow. They're also environmentally friendly since they thrive in most all locations without the need for pesticides or commercial fertilizer .
"Give them eight hours of full sun a day, good air movement over the leaves, water as needed and then just enjoy them," he said. George also stated that excellent soil preparation with lots of finished compost is needed to give these roses the proper start.
There are many different flower colors, mature plant sizes, flower shapes and fragrances in the Earthkind program. In fact, in 2005 the top-selling rose in the US was the Earthkind rose "Knockout". With roses in bloom, now is a good time to visit your nursery and make your choice. You too can grow roses!
Mary Hamlin, Smith County Master Gardener
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