Regional Growing Guide: Western Mountains & High Plains
From the eastern slopes of the Cascade and Sierra ranges through the High Plains, this generally arid region battles bitterly cold winters, blustery spring winds, little rain and sometimes brutal summer heat. The soil presents challenges, too, be it alkaline, sandy, clay or infused with salt and boron. Fortunately, the severe climate poses few insect or disease problems. But the roses that thrive here must be cold hardy and survive wild swings in temperature. They often bear strong, leathery leaves to resist desiccation. They also appreciate regular irrigation, heavily amended soil, a thick layer of mulch and protection from the wind.
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Books
Roses for Dummies (Wiley Publishing, 2000), by Lance Walheim, is an excellent reference for the advanced rosarian as well as the novice. His recommendations for which rose to plant and, more importantly, which not to plant, are invaluable.
There is a section of color photos of the different types of roses: hybrid teas, shrub roses, climbers, floribundas, grandifloras, and miniatures. There also is a section on what makes roses fragrant, which is very interesting reading. There is a large section on the cultivation of roses in containers, as well as the basics, such as pruning, fertilizing and watering. Over all, Roses for Dummies is a great source of information to keep on hand if you love roses!
If you've ever wondered about companion planting, here's a fun book that explores the topic in detail. Roses Love Garlic: Secrets of Companion Planting with Flowers, by Louise Riotte (Garden Way Publishing, 1998), describes how flowers help or hinder vegetables and other flowers. The book suggests companions for many commonly grown annuals and perennials, plus it discusses the medicinal uses, history, and folklore of many plants.