It doesn’t take any special skill to be a member of a rose society. You just need to love the idea of a walk through the garden and to occasionally take the time to smell the roses … as they say.
Society members enjoy the idea they can meet with like-minded people and talk about the success, and problems, they’re having in their garden. They love telling people about the beautiful flowers they enjoy in their yards.
An advantage to joining a rose society is there are always Consulting Rosarians around that are willing to give you advise to help you grow a better rose. You don’t need to be a member to talk to them … but it’s easier to find one at a rose society meeting. There are four rose societies in Arizona that typically meet one night each month for an educational program. The information provided by the speakers is much appreciated because it’s designed to help you grow healthier roses at home. You can learn about rose varieties, sources of new roses, insects that affect our roses, how to combat diseases that might affect your garden, how and when to fertilize your roses, and how to properly prune your roses during the year.
Each of the Arizona societies sponsor a rose show during the year. Phoenix, Glendale, and Tucson all hold their show in April. Mesa promotes its show in November. There are classes for both novice and experienced rosarians. Classes include Horticulture, Arrangements, and Photography.
I’ve also found that rosarians are fond of the coffee and donuts on Saturday morning. Volunteer “Deadheaders” care for the plants at the Mesa Community College Rose Garden and other rose gardens in Arizona. Typically, each work session begins with coffee and conversation. Joining the Deadheaders on Saturday is a nice change of pace after spending We so much time – alone – tending to our roses at home.
“We Share Your Love of Roses” and hope you will chose to join us.
