The First Lavender Rose

(Rosa 'Sterling Silver')

~ by Sassy E. ~

Introduced in 1957, 'Sterling Silver' was the first lavender (actually mauve) Hybrid Tea developed and remains one of the best. 'Sterling Silver ' is a small to medium size Hybrid Tea rose. The bushes are nearly thorn less with an upright characteristic form. The height is usually about three feet. The leaves are semi glossy and about a medium green in color. The well formed, 3 1/2 inch wide, mauve flowers have a strong lemony fragrance and blooms repeatedly.

These relatively small stature roses need to be placed in a prominent place, where they can be appreciated. An area with full sun and good air circulation to prevent mildew with a very rich, well drained, slightly acidic soil that is moist but not waterlogged would be good and when needed given a gentle soak in the mornings only.

Feed mature plants several times during its growing season. Time the feedings to occur just before a new bloom cycle. Always add high organic content, both for the nutrients and moisture retention. To name a few there is peat moss, compost and well rotten manure. Plant in the late fall or late winter if planting in the mild winter regions. In the cold regions plant in early spring.

The spaces between plants depend on the climate. In areas with long growing seasons, 2 1/2 feet is a good spacing for the 'Sterling Silver'. The 'Sterling Silver' is fully winter hardy. Each bush needs to be mounded at the base about 10-inches of soil as winter approaches. When the temperatures stay below freezing, you can and should add heavier mulch, things like pine needles, leaves, straw, or ground bark.

Important Note: 'Sterling Silver' is susceptible to black leaf spot, a fungal disease. Avoid overhead watering, keep foliage uncrowded, air circulation good and give your plants plenty of sun. If infection occurs, destroy affected foliage and spray with fungicide.

The subtle mauve color of 'Sterling Silver' is an asset in the garden. It's easier even to appreciate in flower arrangements. It makes an excellent, long lasting cut flower and can be used alone or combined with whites or other light colored roses.

         

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