In a world where we sometimes begin to believe that our dreams can’t come true. One of mine is coming together this week.
The office of President of the United States is one that has been occupied by only a few. They, for their term of office are considered to be the leader of the free world. They face incredible scrutiny and also exultant praise. Our Presidents and First Ladies have come from all walks of life and each have their own style and for some, a rose named in their honor. As our nation presses onward toward another election, and the debates drone on and on, I am once again dreaming of roses.
Way back in 2007, I blogged about the possibility of a presidential rose bed. A rose bed with only roses named for Presidents and First Ladies. Several things have kept me from realizing this dream, but as I have learned with most things in life; Be patient. When the time is right, it will come to pass.
Last fall, I had the opportunity to purchase 2 Ronald Reagan hybrid teas. As I mentioned in a previous post, I love this rose, not only for its striking beauty, but it was President Reagan who signed the proclamation declaring the rose our “National Floral Emblem”. ARS rating: 7.7
This week, I purchased a “Lady Bird” hybrid tea named for the beloved First Lady, “Lady Bird” Johnson. Her establishment of the Wildflower Center at the University of Texas at Austin secured her place in the hearts of gardeners everywhere. I can remember as a small boy, watching her on television waving a gloved hand “plant a tree, a shrub or a bush, beautify America!” It was no surprise to me when they announced a rose named in her honor. ARS rating: 7.2
Next in this Presidential rose bed, is the “Barbara Bush” hybrid tea. A beautiful soft coral pink rose; it is said to be a source of inspiration in the garden. ARS rating: 7.4
Mr. Lincoln will round out my collection. He has been a favorite in our garden for several years often reaching over 8 ft tall in the summer. This rose certainly lives up to its namesake. ARS rating: 8.3
As I plant these roses, I am thankful for the incredible blanket of protection we all sleep under each night as Americans and I rejoice in the knowledge that we continue to inspire the world with a government elected “by the people and for the people” and to be a place where even the smallest of dreams can come true…….
Excellent article Chris. Fine reading indeed.
What a great idea! This will be a great bed not only for the roses, but also for the history behind each administration. I look forward to hearing what other roses make your “Presidential bed”.
A tour of your garden would be fascinating, with each rose having a story to tell. I love the idea of the Presidential rose bed!
Chris,
Chester Arthur and Millard Fillmore are still waiting for their roses.
As is Rutherford B. Hayes.. Poor souls.
Hi Chris, I love the idea of a themed rose bed! I think it is entertaining to collect roses fitting a specific theme and it certainly will strike up a conversation with garden visitors. From the roses that you have mentioned here in your post I only grow ‘Mr. Lincoln’, which is an incredible rose here in Southern California. The fragrance just knocks your socks of. ‘Barbara Bush’ looks also very appealing to me. I am curious to read how this rose is doing for in the future (I assume you just got it now). Good luck with your presidential rose bed. I would love to see photos of it this spring!
Christina
Dear Chris, I love themed gardens and yours will be very special. I look forward to seeing it completed. Beautiful posting. P. x
What an excellent idea. I’ve never seen a theme like this and it’s just great. ‘Ronald Reagan’ – I have a little bust of him where I can see it when I’m working. His rose is truly gorgeous.
He was my favorite President. I came from a family of staunch democrats. My mama likta have died when i joined the young republicans!
Nice read. Well done. Love the Barbara Bush. My wife met George Junior when he was governor of Texas. I’ll have to tell you the story sometime. Always enjoy your posts and try to keep up with your tweets!