Judging Mini-Flora Roses

Posted on ARS website is a revised Chapter IX on âÂÂJudging The Mini-Flora SpecimensâÂÂ. ARS Board approved this revision in October 2004, at the Tulsa National Convention.

Besides typical rules on judging mini-floras, one notable change was, â at the nation level the mini-flora is ineligible to compete for miniature Queen or courtâÂÂ. Optional at district and local levels if a show does not have a mini-flora court. Mini-Floras are eligible for all the same awards as the miniature.

Included are certificates for the best (Blue) ribbon winners in the following categories:

Mini- Flora Queen of Show; Mini- Flora King of Show; Mini- Flora Princess of Show; and best Mini- Flora open bloom.

Two years ago the question was presented to the National Classification Committee, if the shrub rose âÂÂJune Bicolorâ yb, 1633 could be entered with the Old Garden Roses (OGR)? Technically all roses are actually considered shrubs. ARS definition of an OGR is roses of those classes that originate prior to 1867.

The committeeâÂÂs reply was âÂÂits placement into the shrub class supersedes its longevity of introductionâÂÂ. A rose classified in a certain class can only be exhibited into that class.

At this point what does not seem to fit this rule, is why are mini- floras the exception and can compete against the miniature rose, even if judged by different standards and of a different rose classification?

As for being an option at the district level, as stared in the âÂÂGuidelines For Operating Rose Shows Under ARS standardsâÂÂ. The purpose of this section is to present guidelines and procedures applicable to Nation and District shows eligible for ARS awards.