CHAPTER IV 



HYBRID PERPETUALS 



So far as the beginner is concerned, we take leave of 

 climbing roses. If he considers that his capabilities 

 have been underrated, he will doubtless turn to the 

 other chapters that deal with further climbing roses, 

 which, at least, are not so patient under wrong treat- 

 ment as those already referred to. The first of the great 

 groups of bush or dwarf roses to mention is that known 

 as Hybrid Perpetual. The signification of the title is 

 apparent, the varieties composing this group are of 

 cross-bred origin, and they are (more or less) perpetual 

 blooming. It is, however, an unfortunate title in the 

 present day, for they are, as a class, far less persistent 

 flowering than others. But if we remember that until 

 seventy or eighty years ago all the roses grown were 

 summer blooming only, we can excuse the delight of 

 rosarians at the advent of roses that blossomed again 

 after the summer show, and can well understand that 

 they should have been classed as Perpetual. Individual 

 varieties of the Hybrid Perpetual Rose vary consider- 

 ably in manner and in vigour of growth, but one can, 

 at least, write definitely on one point — they are very 

 hardy, and for this reason alone some of the best should 

 find a home in the beginner's garden. Most of them 



