Roses have three different grades, 1, 1 ½ and 2. The only roses which aren’t graded are roses grown on their own rootstock. These roses can be of any size or quality. If you’re buying own root roses it’s best to either see the roses you’re purchasing or order on-line from a reliable source. Many rose gardeners swear by roses grown on their own rootstock. If you haven’t yet, try both a graded and own root rose in your garden so you can compare.
The best graded roses you can buy are grade 1. This grade has the largest root system and should have at least 3 ¾ inch canes. Of all the graded roses these are the largest. You’ll have an easier time establishing a grade 1 rose in your garden. These roses will require less “babying” to get off to a good start, compared to a lower grade rose.
Grade 1 ½ roses aren’t bad roses. These roses are simply smaller and younger plants. A bit of time in the garden and some extra care can have these roses looking as good as a grade 1 rose. Grade 1 ½ roses should have a minimum of two reasonably sized rose canes.
Grade 2 roses are basically the leftovers. Grade 2 roses can grow into nice sized plants, but they have a much higher chance of always being small, sickly and eventually dying after you've expended considerable effort on their behalf. If you see a grade 2 rose and really want to bring it home, give it a try. These roses are usually very cheap. Its fine to buy a grade 2 rose as long as you make your purchase knowing what you’re getting.
I personally have purchased all three grades of roses. The grade 1 roses have all done very well and were quick to establish. Then I’ve purchased grade 1 ½ roses. They’ve been slower to establish but in the end eventually did catch up to the grade 1 roses; a bit of extra time and care made them beautiful plants. The grade 2 roses that I’ve purchased all either passed on or were shovel pruned within two years. I’m sure there is someone out there who has a great story about growing a beautiful plant from a grade 2 rose, but that triumph has eluded me.
Rose purchasing doesn’t have to be confusing. For best results walk into the purchase aware of your gardening experience and the time you have to expend on each plant. If you have the time and skills go for a grade 1 ½ rose, if you want an easier time establishing your rose select a grade 1 rose. I’d probably avoid the grade 2 roses at this point, but that’s me.
An excellent and affordable reference for rose care is Ortho's Complete Guide to Roses. Click this link to view the book at Amazon.com Ortho's Complete Guide to Roses
