The Oklahoma Rose is a cherished Hybrid Tea variety, celebrated for its striking aesthetics and captivating fragrance. This Hybrid Tea rose is renowned for its large, deep red, velvety blooms, contributing significantly to its appeal. Its robust, sweet perfume and unique elegance make it a favored choice for many garden enthusiasts.
Understanding the Oklahoma Rose
The Oklahoma Rose (Rosa ‘Oklahoma’) is a Hybrid Tea cultivar recognized for its vigorous growth and substantial mature size, reaching about 5 feet in height and spread. Its signature feature is rich, dark red, almost blackish, velvety petals that form large, high-centered blooms, often 5 inches in diameter with 45 to 50 petals. This rose is particularly noted for its exceptionally strong, sweet, old rose fragrance. As a Hybrid Tea, it produces classic, elegant blooms on long, sturdy stems, making it an excellent choice for cut flowers.
Planting and Site Selection
Establishing an Oklahoma Rose begins with selecting an optimal planting site for its health and vibrant blooms. This rose thrives in full sunlight, requiring a minimum of six hours of direct sun exposure daily for robust growth and abundant flowering. Good air circulation around the plant is also important to reduce fungal disease risk.
The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic pH (6.0-6.5). Before planting, dig a hole twice the width and depth of the root ball, incorporating compost or well-rotted manure for fertility and drainage. Position the rose so the bud union, if present, is at or just above ground level, especially in warmer climates, or 1-2 inches below ground in colder regions. After placing the plant, backfill with soil, gently pressing to remove air pockets, and watering thoroughly to settle the soil and establish roots. When planting multiple roses, allow at least three to four feet of space between them for adequate air flow and growth.
Essential Daily Care
Consistent watering is essential for the Oklahoma Rose’s health and vibrancy during its active growing season. Deep, infrequent watering, soaking the soil 18 to 24 inches deep, is recommended to encourage a strong root system. Watering once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions, provides sufficient moisture. Avoid overhead watering, which promotes fungal diseases like black spot and powdery mildew. Drip irrigation systems or soaker hoses are ideal for direct root zone watering.
Fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Apply a balanced rose-specific fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges, and continue with additional light feedings every four to six weeks until late summer. A mid-summer application of a fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium enhances blooming. Conduct a soil test periodically to identify nutrient deficiencies and adjust your program.
Applying a two to three-inch layer of organic mulch, such as pine bark, cedar, or compost, around the base of the plant conserves soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. It also enriches the soil as it breaks down. Regular deadheading, removing spent blooms just above a five-leaflet leaf, encourages new flowers and extends blooming.
Pruning for Health and Blooms
Pruning is an important practice for maintaining the Oklahoma Rose’s health, shape, and prolific blooming. The primary pruning, known as hard pruning, should be performed in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges and after severe frost. This annual pruning involves removing dead, diseased, or damaged canes, which are often dark or blackened, as well as any spindly growth or canes thinner than a pencil.
When making cuts, use sharp, clean pruning shears for precise cuts that minimize stress and prevent disease. Make cuts at a 45-degree angle, approximately one-quarter inch above an outward-facing bud. This encourages outward growth, promoting an open, vase-shaped structure and improving air circulation. Removing canes that cross or rub against each other prevents injury and disease.
Protecting Your Oklahoma Rose
Protecting the Oklahoma Rose from common pests and diseases is essential for its longevity and bloom quality. Common pests include aphids and spider mites, managed by regular inspection and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. A strong water spray can dislodge aphids, and good air circulation deters spider mites.
Fungal diseases like black spot and powdery mildew are prevalent, especially in humid conditions. To minimize their occurrence, avoid overhead watering, plant roses with adequate spacing for air circulation, and promptly remove affected leaves or diseased canes. Using disease-resistant varieties is also a proactive measure. For severe infestations or infections, targeted organic or chemical treatments may be considered as a last resort, always following product instructions.
In colder climates, providing winter protection is important for safeguarding against extreme temperatures. After a hard frost, mound soil, compost, or mulch eight to ten inches deep around the plant’s base to protect the graft union and lower canes. This insulates the plant through the dormant season, ensuring its survival and vigorous spring return.