WHY CALIFORNIA TAKES THE BEST ROSES 147 



the idea in view of obtaining a bush of rounded form. The new 

 growths which follow a pruning are irregular as to height and it is 

 impossible to keep the plant in anything like formal shape." 



CLASSES AND VARIETIES OF ROSE. 



For the reasons stated in the preface to this work, the writer can- 

 not enter into a description of rose varieties nor need he undertake 

 discussion of the classification of them. The amateur will usually 

 find in the excellent special catalogues of California nurserymen, who 

 are doing most with rose propagation, >all that he needs to lead him to 

 growth and intelligent enjoyment of the flower. These publications 

 will indicate the varieties of different colors which have established 

 themselves in California esteem and are therefore best for a beginner 

 to plant, although he will be pardoned for dipping into novelties if he 

 cannot resist the alluring descriptions given of their desirability. 



In general it may be said that the roses commonly grown in 

 California are the highest of their several classes, including practically 

 all those which are pronounced tender and delicate, and for which, in 

 wintry climates, growth under glass is prescribed. The best roses of 

 moderate winter climates are also grown in California. The only ones 

 which may be looked for in vain, except in the mountains, are the extra 

 bardy or iron-clad kinds. Our climates do not require them and they 

 are therefore rejected in favor of roses of higher quality and of re- 

 peated or continuous blooming. 



