64 HOW TO GROW ROSES 



Staking the Roses. — Standard or Tree roses, unless extra- 

 ordinarily sturdy and planted where they are protected from 

 the winds, will be the better for staking. The stake should 

 come well up to the head of the rose. Place it while planting, 

 for if it is driven later it may injure an important root. Bush 

 roses seldom need staking when planted, although this is a 

 matter for attention according to the needs of individual varie- 

 ties. Plants should never be permitted to sway about or become 

 loose at the collar. If the sun be warm within the next day or 

 two after you plant, the bush will be the better for being 

 shaded, as well as for mulch about the roots. 



Labeling. — Rose-growing with labels is by far the most 

 delightful kind. You lose half the pleasure if you lose the 

 names, to say nothing about the satisfaction of accumulating 

 information. The importance of labeling is really great. Do 

 it when you plant as a part of the operation; otherwise, it is 

 likely to be overlooked. The growers' labels in some cases are 

 not likely to last more than one season, and then it becomes 

 dreadfully embarrassing not to know what to call your plant- 

 children, whether you want to scold or caress them. Choose 

 the label with fewest faults. 



Or better still, make a diagram of your bed before you start 

 planting, and on it indicate the relative location of every plant 

 in it. This will prove a great convenience later. (See page 29.) 



