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SRW Tip#4: Planting Bare-root RosesRead the article this discussion is about
This archived discussion is "read only".
» Mark_Whitelaw - [Posted for Mary C. Weaver] Dear Mark: I was just rereadin [Posted for Mary C. Weaver]Dear Mark: I was just rereading your piece on planting bare-root roses and noted the following: "recent studies have shown planting bud unions above the soil line (where possible) reduces pest bacterial infestation and keeps the bud union dry to reduce graft decay." Do you recall where this info was published? I'd like to take a look myself. Thanks in advance, Mary W. -- posted by Mark_Whitelaw » Mark_Whitelaw - Mary, I've scoured my notes and references, and for the life Mary,I've scoured my notes and references, and for the life of me cannot find the source. I first noticed this technique some 6 years ago while on a business/pleasure trip to the gardens at Epcot Center near Disney World and Orlando, FL. After noticing the same technique at the Grand Floridian hotel, also on the grounds of Disney World and where I was staying, I sought out and discussed the planting procedure with the grounds keeper and rose gardens custodian. The bud unions were planted noticeably higher (3 - 4 in.) than the surrounding terrain. The mulch level was very low -- maybe only 1/2 in. thick. In was informed this procedure was used as a result of testing which confirmed it reduced bacterial disease. At the time, I just nodded in understanding; not having the presence of mind to ask the same question you just asked. I thought they had said the research was done at the Univ. of Florida, but I cannot confirm that. Not doing business in that area and specializing in antique roses (usually on their own roots), the technique soon left my suggested rose planting advice. Then, about two years ago while helping the staff at the Ft. Worth Botanical Garden plant several hundred new bare-root roses, the staff horticulturist and rose garden caretaker both instructed us to plant the roses using this same technique... only slightly lower than those at Disney World and Epcot Center. When I asked why this was to be done in our hardiness zone, I was informed by the staff horticulturist that the procedure was the recommended approach to reduce the incidence of Crown Gall, a bacterial disease which has plagued the Garden for the past several years. And that by planting the bud unions about 2 - 3 in. above the soil level, combined with a major soil renovation, would permit sufficient space to apply a thick layer of mulch and still have the bud union above the surface -- thereby helping keep it dry and disease-free. Since that time, I have seen other articles (besides my own) that make reference to this technique for warmer climates -- one of which is posted at the ARS website. But like my own, these do not cite a reference. I know I've read the article on this subject, but I just cannot find it. When I get a break, I'll have to dig back into some old issues of journals to see if I can find it. I'll also check with Dr. Janell Stevens-Johnk, Professor of Plant Pathology at the Dallas Research Center for the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, to see if she has any references. Keep your eye on this thread to see if the definitive answer pops up. Meanwhile, if anyone out there has the reference, please post it! I'll keep looking. MarkW>Ft. Worth, TX/Zn 7b, Rose Garden -- posted by Mark_Whitelaw » CarolWallace - Joanne, Willow water is simply water that willow twigs have b Joanne,Willow water is simply water that willow twigs have been soaked in. Some people cut up the willow and allow it to steep for a week or so, but I usually just cut willow twigs and leave them in water until they root, plant any I want and use the water for other things I want to root. Carol virtually gardening -- posted by CarolWallace » Mark_Whitelaw - Hi Joanne! Welcome to Suite101.com's Rose Garden! To add to C Hi Joanne! Welcome to Suite101.com's Rose Garden!To add to Carol's post: Using willow water as a rooting solution is an ancient artform. It dates back at least 200 years and probably earlier. It was frequently used by our pioneering settlers as they brought their rose cuttings from Europe to the colonies in North America; and from there, on their westward movement across the continent. Glad you stopped in. Come visit often! {g} MarkW>Ft. Worth, TX/Zn 7b, Rose Garden -- posted by Mark_Whitelaw
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