Own Root Roses or Grafted Root Roses: Which is Right For You?

When shopping for roses, you may notice that there are two different types to choose from. You will likely encounter “own root” roses and “grafted” roses. So what is the difference and which one is right for you?

Grafted roses are actually made up of two plants. It will have the stems and flowers of one plant and the root system of another. Horticulturists will typically create these hybrids to take advantage of a strong, weather tough root system of one plant and the beauty and delicateness of another.

You will usually be able to tell whether you have a grafted rose by looking for a bulge or knob low down on the stem of the plant. This is the location where the two type of plants were grafted together.

While the hardiness of the plant may be increased, there is the risk that suckers of the original plant will emerge during the growing process. Also, it is possible that harsh winter or other unfavorable condition will kill the top part of the plant, leaving you with only the underlying root structure of a different plant.

An “own root” rose, on the other hand, is all original. It is not combined with another plant. It is started as a cutting and will have its own root structure. The sellers of “own root” roses will typically brag on the label that the plant is “own root” and you will also not see any signs of grafting like you would on a grafted rose.

Should an own root rose suffer through a harsh winter, as long as the root system is not damaged, it will re-sprout as it’s original self, and not some mystery plant. You will also not suffer or experience suckers of a foreign looking plant.

You do lose the benefit of the hardy root structure with own root roses. This may lead to them being less hardy and possibly more susceptible to diseases.

So, which should you choose, grafted or own root roses? This mainly depends upon the conditions that the plants are going to be growing in.

If the environment is not likely to benefit from enhanced strength and disease fighting powers of a mysterious root system, then own root roses will likely be ideal. If, however, you are in an area where you will need the benefits of an enhanced root structure you’re likely going to find the grafted rose more suitable for your needs.

Max enjoys the beauty and enjoyment of planting and maintaining roses. When not working with roses, Max focuses his time on elder care mobility issues with an eye towards electric motor scooters and chair lifts for stairs. If you or a loved one has and issue with mobility, come visit and discover more information on these important mobility concerns.

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November 01 2009 | Gardening | No Comments »

The Positive Benefits of Having a Garden

by Matt Truman

Since early times, gardening has been a vital part of human society. In present day, individuals can get a lot of pleasure from participating in this age-old practice, while gaining a number of great attributes from a newfound hobby.

Perhaps the clearest benefit of gardening is the food. It doesn’t cost much to start a growing operation, and everything you get is free of cost. In addition, what you grow often tastes better and overall is better than store-bought food.

Since the majority of gardeners don’t use the kind of pesticides and chemicals that large scale farmers use, the entire yield will be completely organic. This means that it is better for you and the Earth as well. We are all bombarded with toxins every day, so having some organics to counter that is certainly useful.

Depending on the size of your garden, tending it can be physically challenging. There is the hoeing, the planting, the watering, and the harvesting. Small gardens usually do not require much activity, but you can really work up a sweat if you are managing a large field.

Believe it or not, gardening can actually help make you smarter. Much knowledge is required to run an efficient garden, so you cannot be excessively dim-witted to do it. You may also like to read books about gardening too.

Stress is more destructive than most people realize. It can not only be inhibiting to a productive life, but it can actually shorten life as well. Gardening is a great way to reduce stress, and therefore extend your life considerably.

In the case that you have a very large yield from your garden, you can even make some money for your efforts. Certain dedicated fruit and vegetable shops will buy products from trusted producers, and you could also sell to your friends, which would be quicker and easier.

The astounding amount of benefits one receives from gardening makes the hobby almost irresistible to participate in. Gardening can make you feel fulfilled in so many ways and make you healthier at the same time.

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July 07 2009 | Gardening | No Comments »

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