When talking to any rose expert about what truly defines an exceptional rose, you'll consistently hear them emphasize the importance of strong, healthy roots. Much like a well-built home needs a solid foundation to support everything above ground, roses rely on their root systems for strength and vitality.
We’re proud to work with a bare root grower who upholds the highest standards in the industry. Their sprawling fields of virus-free and gall-free rootstock are a testament to their commitment to quality. This rootstock undergoes a thoughtful process; harvested through cuttings and planted in winter, it establishes a strong root system before they bud the intended rose variety on top in the spring. It's fascinating to realize that while the rootstock field may not have the visual appeal of blooming roses, this field is absolutely vital to nurturing the beautiful plants we all admire.
One of the standout features of our grower is their innovative irrigation system, which takes a refreshing departure from the more traditional flood irrigation method. Many growers rely on this older technique, where water is spread across fields through pipes running the perimeter, but we’ve seen firsthand the challenges it can bring—like ensuring even water distribution. Not only does the ground need to be perfectly flat, but any deviations can lead to disastrous results, as we learned from unfortunate losses in the past when our prior grower’s field was not level and our roses drowned.
Fortunately, our new grower has embraced a forward-thinking solution: a professional drip line strategically buried nine inches below the soil. This system ensures that water is delivered directly and evenly to the roots, encouraging them to grow deep in search of moisture. Healthy, long roots are a true indicator of a robust rose! Additionally, our grower utilizes smart technology, complete with sensors, to monitor water levels and detect any deficiencies. This proactive approach allows for precise water and fertilizer adjustments, ensuring our roses receive just the right amount of hydration and nutrition.
The meticulous care involved in watering both the rootstock and rose fields showcases what sets our bare root roses apart. With a strong emphasis on healthy, long roots from virus-free and gall-free rootstock, we are well on our way to having truly extraordinary bare root roses.
It's this blend of passion and cutting-edge technology that excites us about the future of rose growing. We can't wait to see how these efforts will continue to flourish, bringing joy and beauty to gardens everywhere!
Just wait until you see the length and thickness of these roots! For those of you who love own root roses, we have an impressive collection of own root roses coming. And for many of our rose varieties, you’ll have the choice of budded or own root!
