Southwestern Pennsylvania’s soil does not offer the kindest reception to rose growers.
“This is a tough area to grow (roses),” says Ann Kubik, a Pittsburgh Rose Society member.
“There is so much clay in the area. You have to amend the soil with peat moss, compost, mushroom manure, anything to break down the clay. They don’t like wet feet,” she says of roses.
But there are ways gardeners can encourage the beautiful, scented flowers to take root and thrive, she adds. Amended soil, water, food and six hours of daily sunlight provide optimal growing conditions.
This information and much more will be available when the Pittsburgh Rose Society stages a Rose Expo, free and open to the public, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. June 15 at the Mt. Lebanon Public Library, 16 Castle Shannon Blvd.
Over 100 different kinds of roses will be on display. The expo will offer both the new and experienced gardener the opportunity to see the variety of shapes and colors of roses to successfully grow in this northern climate.
“It’s just an informational show, what roses are grown in this area and grow well,” Kubik says.
Rose experts, including specially trained and certified consulting rosarians, will be on hand, along with information tables.
Displays will address issues including “Insect and Pest Control,” “Earth-Kind Roses,” “Rose-Rosette Disease” and “Rose and Plant Photography.”
Those attending are welcome to bring their roses to get tips and advice.
“We encourage other people to grow beautiful roses and not be afraid of them,” Kubik says.
Details: pghrosesociety.org
