Guest Author - Sue MacNeil

The All American Rose Selections Association has announced it’s 2008 selections. This year’s roses have something in common-gold. Both varieties have this precious color in their blooms. The selections were announced at this year’s Garden Writers Association Symposium in Oklahoma City.

As holders of the coveted “AARS Winner” title, these two new roses passed two years of testing against 15 criteria such as color, fragrance, ease of maintenance and disease resistance. Bearing the AARS seal of approval ensures that these rose bushes will flourish in gardens of rose lovers all across the country.

“Since 1938, AARS has identified the best roses for gardens across the country,” said AARS president Tom Carruth. “We are continually impressed to see the unique — and exceptional — new rose varieties stand up to our rigorous testing. The 2008 Winners are sure to bring much delight to gardeners nationwide.”

Here are the 2008 All American Rose Selections:

Dream Come True
This rose is truly stunning. It features soft gold blossoms that blush red at the tips and flawless matte green leaves. It’s a big and bushy plant with a vigorous growth habit. It’s long lasting blooms are on long stems and have a mild tea fragrance, making them perfect for cutting and arranging.

Dream Come True was hybridized by Dr. John Pottschmidt of Cincinnati, Ohio ,only the third amateur hybridizer to win the AARS Award in 67 years, and is introduced by Weeks Roses of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

Mardi Gras
This rose is a show stopper! It features blooms with a mix of pink, orange and yellow and has a unique and pleasant peppery scent. Mardi Gras will brighten up any yard! The blooms start with an orangey bud that opens to reveal a 4 inch pink and orange flower with a gold base. It’s dark green, semi-glossy foliage makes a stunning backdrop. In addition to it’s show-stopping beauty it’s easy to care for and is idea for use as a hedge or border.

Mardi Gras was hybridized by Keith Zary and is introduced by Jackson & Perkins Wholesale, Inc. of Medford, Ore.

For more information on 2008’s beautiful award winners, including photos, check out www.rose.org, and be sure to drop by our forum to share your thoughts on the newest All American selections! You can also ask and find answers to all your rose care questions and talk to other rose lovers. Stop by and say hello!