The Evelyn Rose, a David Austin cultivar introduced in 1991, is an English Shrub Rose prized for its beauty and strong, captivating fragrance. Named in conjunction with Crabtree & Evelyn, it offers a unique sensory experience.
Unique Characteristics of Evelyn Rose
Evelyn Rose blooms are large, full, and apricot-pink, often with soft pink tinges. They typically have 80-100 petals in a cupped to flat, rosette form. Color deepens at the center, lightening to pale apricot or cream as blooms mature.
Its defining feature is a strong, fruity fragrance, reminiscent of peaches, apricots, and classic Old Rose. The plant typically grows as a large shrub, reaching 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Robust growth produces young bronzed foliage that matures into glossy dark green leaves, providing an attractive backdrop for blooms.
Cultivating Evelyn Rose
Successful Evelyn Rose cultivation requires careful site selection. Plants thrive in full sunlight (at least six hours daily) for vigorous growth and prolific blooming. Good air circulation also helps prevent fungal diseases.
Site Selection
Choose a location with full sunlight and protection from harsh winds. Placing the rose near a path allows easy enjoyment of its fragrance. Ensure sufficient space for the mature shrub (5 feet tall, 3 feet wide) to prevent overcrowding.
Soil Preparation
Evelyn Roses prefer loamy, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage. For sandy soils, organic material increases water retention and nutrient availability.
Before planting, dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball. Incorporate compost into the removed soil for a nutrient-rich environment. Proper soil preparation is foundational for a healthy rose.
Planting
For bare-root Evelyn Roses, soak roots in water for a few hours. For container-grown roses, carefully remove the plant, disturbing the root ball minimally. Position the rose so the graft union is 1-2 inches below the soil line in colder climates, or at the soil line in warmer regions.
Backfill the hole with amended soil, firming it gently around roots to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil and provide hydration. Space multiple plants 3-4 feet apart for mature size and good air circulation.
Watering
Consistent, deep watering is essential for Evelyn Roses, especially during dry periods and establishment. Soak the root zone to encourage deeper root growth, making the plant more resilient to drought.
Water every few days in hot, dry weather; once a week in cooler conditions. Monitor soil moisture. Avoid overhead watering late in the day, as prolonged leaf wetness promotes fungal diseases.
Fertilizing
Evelyn Roses benefit from regular fertilization during their growing season to support abundant blooms. Begin in early spring as new growth emerges, using a balanced rose-specific fertilizer or one with higher phosphorus for flowering. Always follow product instructions.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks until late summer or early fall, ceasing applications to harden off before winter. Organic options like compost tea or aged manure provide slow-release nutrients and improve soil health. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Winter Protection
In colder climates (USDA Zones 5-6), Evelyn Roses need winter protection from freezing temperatures. After the first hard frost, mound a 10-12 inch layer of compost, shredded leaves, or bark mulch around the plant’s base. This insulates the graft union and lower canes.
For added protection in very cold regions, enclose the rose with a cylinder of chicken wire or burlap, filling it with insulating material. Remove mounding gradually in early spring as temperatures rise and severe frost threat passes.
Pruning Evelyn Rose
Pruning is fundamental for maintaining Evelyn Roses’ health, shape, and flowering. Primary pruning is best done in late winter or early spring as the plant breaks dormancy. This allows removal of dead, damaged, or diseased wood and shaping before significant new growth.
Always use sharp, clean pruning shears for clean wounds. Cut at a 45-degree angle, a quarter-inch above an outward-facing bud, to encourage outward growth and improve air circulation. Remove crossing branches and weak or spindly growth.
Throughout the growing season, deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers. Cut the faded stem back to a healthy leaf with five leaflets or a strong outward-facing bud. Deadheading also maintains tidiness. For Evelyn Rose’s leggy habit, selective summer pruning can manage size and encourage a bushier form.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Evelyn Roses can encounter pests and diseases, but proactive management keeps them healthy. Common insect pests include aphids (cluster on new growth) and spider mites (cause leaf stippling). A strong water spray dislodges aphids; insecticidal soap or neem oil controls both.
Fungal diseases like black spot (dark spots, yellowing leaves) and powdery mildew (white coating on leaves/stems) are prevalent. Good air circulation through proper spacing and pruning helps prevent these. Apply organic or synthetic fungicides preventatively or at the first sign of disease.
Environmental stressors can impact Evelyn Roses. Yellowing leaves may indicate a nutrient deficiency (iron or magnesium), correctable with fertilizers. Lack of blooms despite healthy foliage could stem from insufficient sunlight, improper pruning, or inadequate soil phosphorus. Addressing these factors helps the rose thrive.
Enjoying Your Evelyn Roses
Once established, Evelyn Rose offers numerous rewards. Its large, fragrant blooms are well-suited as cut flowers, bringing their peach and apricot scent indoors. Strong stems support the heavy, multi-petaled blossoms, ideal for elegant bouquets and arrangements.
Beyond cut flowers, Evelyn Roses enhance garden design. Their bushy habit and generous size make them excellent specimen plants or additions to mixed borders. They can also be grown in large containers for enjoyment on patios or near entryways.