Tried-and-true roses for your garden
Roses may be the most controversial plant out there. Gardeners of all types have very strong opinions about them, both positive and negative. In this episode we’re discussing the most reliable, low-maintenance, and high-performing rose varieties for those of us who crave beauty without the fuss. These standout selections offer impressive disease resistance, long bloom periods, and lush fragrance—without demanding constant care. From classic hybrid teas to bombproof species roses, this list proves that growing roses doesn’t have to be an exercise in frustration.
If you’ve shied away from roses (or been burned by them in the past), find out about some tried-and-true choices that deliver season after season, making them a smart and satisfying addition to any garden.
Expert: Adam Glas is a garden supervisor and rosarian at the Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College. You can find his excellent Mid-Atlantic regional reports for FineGardening.com filed here: Adam Glas author page.
Danielle’s Top Rose Picks
- Graham Thomas® rose (Rosa ‘Ausmas’, Zones 5–9)
- ‘Darcey Bussell’ rose (R. ‘Darcey Bussell’, Zones 5–11)
- ‘Desdemona’ rose (R. ‘Desdemona’ syn. R. ‘Auskindling’, Zones 5–11)
- Father Hugo rose (R. xanthina f. hugonis, Zones 4–9)
Carol’s Top Rose Picks
- Bonica® rose (Rosa ‘Meidomonac’, Zones 4–9)
- Winged thorn rose (Rosa sericea subsp. omeiensis f. pteracantha, Zones 6–9)
- Redleaf rose (Rosa glauca, Zones 2–8)
- Austrian copper rose (Rosa foetida ‘Bicolor’, Zones 4–9)
Expert Adam Glas’s Top Rose Picks
- Crazy Love™ rose (‘KORbamflu’, Zones 5–10)
- Sweet Mademoiselle™ hybrid tea rose (R. ‘MEInostair’, Zones 5–11)
- Campfire rose (R. ‘CA29’, Zones 3–7)
- Linda Campbell™ hybrid tea rose (R. ‘MORten’, Zones 3–8)
- True Passion™ hybrid tea rose
All photos from the contributor unless noted otherwise.
