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Mailorder Roses


© Mark Whitelaw

It's that time of year again! My mailbox has begun to come under siege from the mailorder companies, especially those companies wanting my "cookie jar savings" dollars set aside for gardening additions. And, of course, their pictures and descriptions are all irresistible!

Such are life's challenges for the gardener - challenges which mean my landscape will never be "complete" and my storage closet will always need just "one more tool" that's absolutely necessary to complete my gardening chores!

Of course, the nicest part of the catalog "wars" is that we as gardening consumers get to see the newest cultivars and gardening accessories from the convenience of our living room. One word of caution before entering the fray, however. Do a bit of research before you make that call to place your order.

Check with your local Certified Nursery Professional. It's possible they may be able to order the exact plant or accessory for you. And since they order in quantity, they may be able to save several dollars in shipping costs. Or, if the cultivar is not suitable for your growing location, they may be able to suggest alternatives which are.

Also check with the Master Gardeners at your local cooperative extension service. You'll find their number in the government pages of the phone directory or, for US readers, on the internet at the USDA's State Partners web site. For our northern readers, Agriculture Canada's Cooperative Secretariat can be of help to readers from that country, as well.

Also check with your local societies for the cultivars and hybrids you are considering. Your local botanical garden will usually have a list of the various societies and garden clubs in your area, along with their phone number. If your city doesn't have a botanical garden, try checking with the City Desk of your local newspaper - the folks who monitor what's going on in the "social circuit" of your town. There's a good chance they will have the name of a point of contact for your local garden club.

Once your research is complete, check the Internet. Some catalog companies which specialize in roses are listed below. (Note: This is not a specific recommendation nor is it meant to be all-inclusive. It is provided only to get you started on your own Search of the Web.)

  • Abbey Rose Gardens - English and modern roses
  • Edmund's Roses - old roses
  • Fryer's Roses - English and modern roses
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    The copyright of the article Mailorder Roses in Rose Gardening is owned by Mark Whitelaw. Permission to republish Mailorder Roses in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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