A practical guide book for admirers of roses, with an emphasis on using old roses in garden designs and planting schemes to make the most of their many virtues. A brief history and classification is followed by numerous suggestions on how to use old roses in a range of situations and for various purposes: in small and large gardens; over pillars, arches and pergolas; in a woodland or beside; for growing into trees or over old sheds, fences or bare walls; as hedges, ground-cover or in containers; for hips or perfume; or in a collector's garden. Combining old roses with perennials, trees and shrubs, climbers and ground-covers will result in a garden with year-round appeal. Photographs and helpful plant lists offer inspiration for companion planting, and there is a chapter of the contribution old roses can make to colour schemes in the garden. A seasonal guide to planting, pruning and propagation, fertilizing and spraying, dead-heading and watering reminds gardeners of what needs doing when, to ensure healthy plants, a spectacular display and a long flowering season.
Appendices include an annotated list of over 500 species and hybrids, and a list of specialist nurseries and rose gardens open to the public.