When you hear Julie Andrews’ name, rosebushes may not be the first thing that comes to mind. So you might be surprised to know that this star of stage and screen has advice to give besides how a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.
Ms. Andrews is actually quite an expert when it comes to rosebushes. Today, we are pleased to offer some of her top tips for growing the most beautiful roses in your garden, worthy of even Capt. Von Trapp!
Nursery Know-how
Ms. Andrews recommends touring your local nursery to become familiar with roses that are best for growing in your local area, including the varieties, the growing methods and the anatomy of the rosebushes.
She advises picking the nursery experts’ brains too, to learn all you can about growing roses, and maybe even pick up a book or two. This way you can learn how to play to your own strengths and what will work best in your particular garden.
Pruning Perfection
If you’re going to grow roses, then you have no choice but to become accustomed to pruning.
Roses require a lot of pruning, and the more you know and practice, the more beautiful your roses will be. Ms. Andrews says that pruning her own roses helps her to “forget everything else.”
So, channel Ms. Andrews and find you own inner pruning Zen.
Climate Control
You also must become familiar with the types of roses that will grow best in your climate.
Who knows, you may find a lesser-known rose that you can incorporate into your landscape that will bring you joy and add a stunning beauty you didn’t expect.
Know Your Limits
Gardens develop according to nature’s laws, and it’s important to understand that you can’t control everything.
You can have a vision of what you want your garden to become, but make sure you observe and listen to it, and understand the direction it needs to go. You will be limited by size and climate, no matter what, so be realistic about what you can successfully incorporate.
Love Thy Neighbor’s Garden
Ms. Andrews encourages us to love, appreciate and learn from others’ gardens.
Whether it is at a grand estate or a little garden off a back patio, you can always find beauty in what others have cultivated. Take walks and see other gardens in your community, as they may serve as inspiration for your own garden.
Your rose garden can be a source of perpetual joy. Knowing how to raise your roses the right way is a learning process, but one that can be mastered with only a little effort.
Drop by Millcreek Gardens in Salt Lake City — northern Utah’s premier garden center where roses are a specialty. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to let you pick their brains and answer any questions you have about the care and cultivation of your rosebushes.