Re: [Rose-list] Re: Miniature roses

**"* R* W* <p*@televar.com>**

> Does anyone have experience with using minis as a short hedge on a walkway? Do
> they grow densely enough for this purpose? 
I have used them for that purpose.  They will grow densely enough but
perhaps not tall enough unless you purchase roses that will grow to the
height you desire.  It may take a couple years to accomplish this. 

Do they generally have good pest
> resistence? 
Mine seem to have little pest problem and very little black spot. 
Deadheading is a time consuming chore though.

 I've heard that most are on their
> own roots - is this true?
I have not seen any that were not on their own roots.  

 Are there special pruning tips for this use? Are
> they continuous bloomers
> or repeaters, etc., generally? Are they usually hardy as a group?
I would say they are continuous bloomers though there are times when the
bloom is heavier than at other times.  If one keeps them deadheaded they
seem to achieve pretty constant bloom.  They are extremely hardy.  I
have never lost one yet.   Use your judgment on pruning.  Keep them out
of the path so they do not snag stockings or clothing.

 Any special tips to know about or consider?
I would suggest purchasing from one of the miniature rose growers or a
reputable nursery.  Roses that are sold in the supermarkets seem to be
ones that have little root growth but have been forced into bloom.  I do
not know if this is true or not but I have been given miniatures that
were sold at chain grocery stores and when I tried to plant them most
had no roots.  They are also sold at times when the weather is not good
for planting them outside.  I have found that minis do not do well in
the house.  Perhaps if one were to create a small greenhouse on a window
sill they might do well.

Nor'East Roses sells a book on miniature rose culture.  They have a Web
page.  I found it by typing their name into my browser.

Good luck! 

Patti
p*@televar.com
central Washington state

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