I'd be happy with either one! They look healthy and thriving.

Both look great, but what a difference!

It would be difficult to choose. The first one has an open and airy quality to it that seems very graceful to me. Somehow the flowers actually look prettier on that bush, unless it's a trick of the light, but being more separated from each other showcases the individual blooms. I would also happily take either one instead of the one I have, which for some reason has leaves that partially fry and the two-tone effect is not a good look. The individual roses also don't last terribly long. I think it's a combination of soil, water and heat, and this may not be the best rose for me.

They look awesome!! I can see why BD rose bushes are so highly esteemed. Yowza!!!

Carol

Hoov, could you tell me the size of your beautiful BD plants? I love yours and have been wanting one for ages. Thanks, Diane

They both look great but yes the more established rose bush has the edge!

Thanks, all.

I keep the mature one at 5' x 6' because that is the space available. I think it looks better kept a little smaller. The other one I've just done light tipping and removal of dead wood, as it is still a youngling.