Rose-a-holics began in 2000 by Dr. Joel Ross (affectionately known as the official CCRS 'Rose Doctor'), as a forum in which members could informally raise questions and examine current horticultural problems. It was intended to provide a means by which more experienced members could invite debates on particular practices with other experienced members and share their knowledge with those who were less experienced. These sessions were intended to permit exploration of conflicting and contradictory horticultural practices and help point the way to practical solutions. One of the more valuable discussions on feeding practices produced an earnest and vigorous debate about the merits of organic versus chemical feeding materials.
Besides being provacative, Rose-a-holics was meant to be educational and entertaining . Over the years, a great many topics have been presented in a variety of different ways. At some of the more memorable sessions, we have had a detailed discussion and demonstration of fragrance, a description and gorgeous visual display of OGR's and a "hands on" tutorial of how to properly can and uncan specimens. The latter was especially entertaining as Frank Grasso and Chris Greenwood "stole the show" with their own unrehearsed presentations.
Rose-a-holic was also designed to present and review in an organized fashion (on a yearly cycle) basic information on plant selection, soil preparation, mulching, feeding, watering, spraying and spray materials (both organic and chemical), prunning and plant propagation. Improptu participation by both novices and more experienced members is encouraged as we explore available options and solutions. A set of detailed handouts has been developed which are meant to serve as useful basic reference materials for novices.
Rose-a-holics meets at 6:15 pm before the monthly meetings, though when needed additional topics are covered on Saturday mornings in the Magee Garden after the work detail. The garden is used as a laboratory in which we have discussed sexual and asexual rose reproduction, learned to definitively identify and treat pests, discussed how to proprerly prepare and transport roses to shows, displayed "the exhibitor's tool box" and have held practice sessions for novices who try their hand at grooming roses for shows. Any CCRS member may arrange to conduct the session and multiple members have done so. Your participation is welcomed, so please come and join us. Visit the Garden of Joel and Linda Ross.
Photograph (above right), Dr. Joel Ross explains propagation techniques at Rose-a-Holics, January 2006. (Above Center) 'Nancy Jean', miniature by Almost Heaven Roses - Vernon Richard
Photos and editing by Brenda Landers-Smith
