Cultivation of Roses

Hutt News, Volume 20, Issue 3, 19 June 1946, Page 2

Cultivation of Roses

HUTT VALLEY AND BAYS ANNUAL MEETING OF SOCIET At the first annual meeting of the Hutt Valley and East Harbour Rose Society, the patron, Mr. J. W. Andrews, expressed pleasure and satisfaction with the formation of a Rose Society, covering in its territory , granted by the National Rose Society of New Zealand, the whole of the Hutt Valley and East Harbour district. Mr. Andrews stressed the value of the garden with the home and was sorry for those to-day who were unable to enjoy the pleasure of a garden. The formation of the Rose Society or any Society formed with the object of beautifying the Valley would be welcomed by members of the City Council arid all citizens. Many suitable streets "n Lower Hutt had been planted with many thousands of native trees and shrubs. These were the citizens' own property and the Council, wi'.n the Superintendent of Reserves, Mr. E. Hutt, looked to the residents nearby to care for and protect them. As far as roses were concerned a good start had been made at ttte Massey Avenue reserve, where 200 rose bushes had bloomed up to show standard this season, and another of 600 plants in a splendidly designed rose garden at the public hospital. There was a good attendance of members. The constitution arid rules were discussed and approved. Mr. P. J. Foote reported that tile Eastbourne Borough GoUncil had promised the formation of a Rdse Garden in their reserve at Eastbourne. Offers of trophies by Mr. Frank Mason and Mr. G. Cairns Were accepted with thanks. A riiember displayed roses at the meeting to show that blooms cOUld be secured for eight months in the year. They made a fine show and the Society would be - pleased to advise rose growers how to do 'likewise. Election of Officers The following officers were electMr. H. W. Tolan; deputy-presidents Messrs. W. H. Wilson and E. H. Anderson; hon. secretary and treasurer Mr. H. M. loell; hon. solicitor Mr. A. H. L. Treadwell; hon. auditor Mr. G. Richardson; council, Messrs. F. J. Foot, W. H. Shrubsall, G. Cairns, A. W. Clark and Miss M. Wood. Mr. W. H. Wilson gave an interesting address on "How to Plant Roses," stressing the importance of deep preparation of - the soil, using various manures such as turf, cow manure, compost, with good drainage. When planting the bushes the soil should be firm, the roots spread •out evenly and covered with fine earth to about one inch above the joint which could be seen when the plant arrived from the nursery. Firm planting was essential. Now was the time to plant or transplant. Mr. Wilson was heartily thariked for his instructive address. "

A demonstration of pruning rosos will be given in July.