The Modern Southern Garden
The Profile
Heirloom Roses
If you have a great love for antiques & grow your own flowers, old roses should be planted in the garden. Many times the varieties preferred hold some sort of sentimental value as your grandmother may have had that same rose in her own collection. Two of my favorite heirloom rose varieties are climbers with single bloom flowers, Dortmund Rose that features bright red blooms & Mermaid Rose with creamy white petals that when open look like delicate heirloom demitasse saucers. These gems are generally found off the beaten path from either a local nursery that specializes in offering an assortment of antique plants or from quality internet sources that can be delivered by mail. Climbing rose varieties in particular lend soft texture to edgy surfaces whether they are trained to grow along fences & arbors or up the side of a lamppost or mailbox. If cared for properly by fertilizing, watering & trimming them, these beautiful roses will thrive year after year.
FROM THE SOUTHERN HOSTESS OF BUTTERMILK LIPSTICK
{helpful advice}
How To Navigate Heirloom Roses & Entertaining Arrangements
Beautiful flower arrangements should change with the seasons so begin by choosing items currently in bloom. Savvy southerners know to have distinctive, indigenous garden varieties planted around their outdoor space that can be used for a number of occasions. Creating arrangements from these flower picks are designed to be effortless & fast to prepare since entertaining involves many fine details as the event draws closer. Red roses should always be included when hosting a Race For The Roses social. Although Freedom Roses are featured in the coveted Churchill Downs event, use your favorite crimson variety such as an heirloom Dortmund Rose or a more standard Knockout Rose to polish spaces.
The Technique
Once you are familiar with several blooming plant & shrub varieties, making your own flower arrangements can be fun & fulfilling. If you don’t have these garden staples growing in your green space, pick them up now & plant them either in pots or in your yard as they can be used in a number of lovely ways.
No. 1
The Profile
Dortmund Rose
Dortmund Rose is a climbing variety that was introduced by Kordes in 1955. It is identified by a single circle of overlapping petals around a white center filled with yellow stamens. The crimson flowers offer a ruffle effect & bloom in clusters when in season. Rich green leaves compliment this rose variety beautifully as they provide glossy texture & hold up well when tucked into arrangements. Deadhead diligently for a repeated showing although it will not be quite as prolific as the first. Aphids, in particular, love to congregate on buds & under the leaves. If you notice yellowing or curled, puckery foliage, these tiny pests are more than likely the culprit so it’s best to use an insecticide formula designed specifically for roses to rid them that will keep the blooms looking their finest. Simply follow the directions for use as stated on the container.
No. 2
The Yard Arrangement
Heirloom silver sugar bowls & creamer pitchers make beautiful containers for creating flower arrangements. The pieces are small & low so grouping them together will inevitably make a nice impact. Start a collection by picking up several to use throughout entertaining spaces from estate sales or antique markets. Pieces that mimic a loving cup style of trophy make spaces particularly festive. Look to The Essential Spring Entertaining Party Primer: How To Polish Silver for pointers to make these coveted gems shine for your gathering.
Create an arrangement ideal for Kentucky Derby Parties by filling the silver pitchers & bowls with blooms. Add enough water to them being certain stems are submerged. Choose flowers early in the day that have freshly opened. Most of the leaves can be removed however tuck a few into the arrangement last to add balance & soften the bold color. Place the flowers on side tables, kitchen islands or cocktail bars for an inviting, lively feel.
The Tune
“Pennies From Heaven” Billie Holiday
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