Veterans' Honor® Hybrid Tea Rose

Jackson and Perkins' 2000 Rose of the Year®.One of the most magnificent red roses ever is a fitting tribute to the men and women who've served our country. Plump pointed, ovoid buds unfurl into huge, 5½-inch high-centered blossoms consisting of 25 to 30 bright, true red petals. As the raspberry-scented flowers mature, their bright color is softened by overtones of pastel pink. The fragrant flowers appear in flushes throughout their early summer to late summer season and last up to two weeks in the vase, standing proudly on strong 18- to 22-inch stems!

The plant itself grows to about 5 feet high and 3 to 4 feet wide, cloaked in lovely dark green foliage.

This rose performs best in medium-moisture, slightly acidic, well-drained loam in full sun. Make sure the plant has good air circulation, as this promotes vigorous and healthy growth and helps prevent disease. A layer of mulch during the summer months helps to retain moisture, keep roots cool, and discourage the growth of weeds.

It should be pruned in the spring, with the removal of old canes and dead wood. Cut back canes that cross each other. Gardeners in warmer climates will want to cut the remaining canes by one-third, while those in colder climates will probably need to trim it a bit more.