Celebrate rose season at The Victoria Esplanade
Published on 29 November 2024
The charm of rose season is here again, as rose lovers across the country showcase their blooms at displays and competitions.
At the heart of the celebration, Palmerston North is preparing to mark the 54th anniversary of the International Rose Trials at the Victoria Esplanade Gardens this weekend.
Over the last two years, Palmerston North City Council staff have been nurturing 50 roses submitted by growers and hybridisers worldwide for these trials.
John Ford, Chairman of the Trial Ground Committee, highlights the exciting innovations in the rose industry reflected in these trials.
“Breeders around the globe are focusing on roses with more blooms, greater resilience to disease, and an increasing emphasis on fragrance. It's an exciting time for rose enthusiasts.”
The roses are assessed by a dedicated panel of 20 judges over two years, with evaluations based on fragrance, colour, health, flower form, and novelty. Roses scoring 70 points or more are awarded Certificates of Merit, making them commercially available. Special honours are reserved for roses that excel in fragrance or bring unique characteristics. Should a New Zealand-bred amateur rose receive an award, it will earn the prestigious Silver Star of the City of Palmerston North.
The most coveted accolade, the Gold Star of the South Pacific, is awarded annually to the top-performing rose grown in the International Rose Trial Grounds. Mr Ford notes that this recognition benefits the breeder and agent by boosting the rose’s visibility and marketability throughout New Zealand.
“These awards enhance Palmerston North’s reputation and highlight the Victoria Esplanade Gardens as a world-renowned rose-growing destination.”
The winners will be announced by Mr Ford and Mayor Grant Smith at the gazebo in the Dugald MacKenzie Rose Garden on Sunday, 1 December, at 11:30am.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness these spectacular blooms and celebrate the art of rose breeding.