The ‘Evelyn’ rose, an English Shrub Rose, is cherished for its captivating beauty and remarkable fragrance. A popular choice for garden displays and cut flowers, its elegant blooms and rich, complex scent make it a favored addition among garden enthusiasts.
Understanding Everly Roses
The ‘Evelyn’ rose, introduced by David Austin in 1991, features large, cupped blooms with over 100 petals. These unfurl in a soft apricot hue, often tinged with pink, creating a romantic appearance. Color may vary with growing conditions, sometimes appearing pale yellow or fading to white under intense heat.
Its strong, fruity fragrance, reminiscent of fresh peaches and apricots layered over a classic Old Rose scent, is a standout characteristic. As a large shrub, it typically reaches 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide at three years old with annual pruning. While often grown as a shrub, its growth habit can be tall and leggy, behaving almost like a climber with flexible canes that can be trained.
Planting and Growing Everly Roses
Site Selection and Soil
Successful cultivation of ‘Evelyn’ roses begins with thoughtful site selection. They thrive in full sunlight, ideally receiving at least six hours daily. Good air circulation helps prevent disease, and protection from strong winds safeguards delicate blooms and canes.
‘Evelyn’ roses adapt to various soil types but perform best in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or other organic amendments to improve drainage and provide nutrients. The ideal soil pH for roses ranges from slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
Planting
For bare-root roses, soak roots in water for several hours before placing them in a prepared hole large enough to accommodate them without crowding. For container-grown roses, carefully remove the plant from its pot and place it in the hole, ensuring the bud union (the swollen part where the rose was grafted) is at or slightly below the soil line in colder climates.
Watering and Fertilizing
Proper watering is crucial for ‘Evelyn’ roses, especially during hot weather and establishment. Roses prefer consistent moisture but dislike soggy conditions. Water deeply every few days, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings. Wilting foliage indicates under-watering, while yellowing leaves can signal overwatering.
Fertilizing supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Apply a balanced rose fertilizer according to package directions, typically every four to six weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots or lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and Deadheading
Regular pruning maintains the rose’s shape, promotes air circulation, and encourages new blooms. Deadhead spent flowers by cutting back to a strong leaf or outward-facing bud. This directs the plant’s energy into producing more flowers instead of seeds.
Addressing Common Issues
Pests
Aphids, small soft-bodied insects, often cluster on new growth and flower buds, sucking plant sap. A strong water spray can dislodge them, or insecticidal soap can be applied for severe infestations. Spider mites, tiny arachnids, thrive in hot, dry conditions, causing stippling on leaves; increasing humidity and using miticides can help manage them.
Diseases
Fungal diseases like black spot and powdery mildew are prevalent issues. Black spot manifests as dark spots on leaves, leading to yellowing and premature leaf drop. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems. Good air circulation, proper spacing, and watering at the base of the plant (rather than overhead) help prevent these diseases. Fungicides, both organic and synthetic, offer control if symptoms appear.
Environmental Stressors
Environmental stressors can also impact ‘Evelyn’ roses. Heat stress might cause blooms to fade quickly or appear paler. Adequate watering during hot periods helps mitigate this. Nutrient deficiencies, indicated by discolored foliage, can be addressed through regular fertilization and occasional soil testing to pinpoint lacking elements.
Enjoying Your Everly Roses
Once established, ‘Evelyn’ roses provide a continuous display of beautiful blooms throughout the growing season. Their strong, fruity fragrance makes them delightful when planted near seating areas, pathways, or entryways, allowing their scent to drift on the breeze. The blooms are excellent as cut flowers, bringing their charm and fragrance indoors.
To maximize vase life, cut stems in the early morning when blooms are just beginning to open. Place cut roses immediately into water and change the water daily; this extends freshness for typically four to six days. In garden design, ‘Evelyn’ roses function well in mixed borders, as focal points, or in large containers. Their elegant form and rich color complement a variety of companion plants, enhancing the garden’s overall beauty and sensory experience.