I hadn't considered that about GVR, vaporvac! Good point. As far as own vs. grafted, I just really don't want to deal with the root stock taking over from either suckering or winter-kill. It does limit me to roses that do alright on their own roots.

In some regions RMV doesn't seem to be a slow death sentence, but I just don't know about mine. Between a newbie gardener, shade, and tree roots (I've got a fairly shaded lot) I think that's enough stress on a plant!

How is your Munstead Wood doing?

I bought some own root Windermere and Queen of Sweden from DA this year. They are very healthy and don't look to have RMV but I'm not an expert. All had several thick canes and a nice root system. These were planted in early June, which is late for bare roots but they are growing great and have already had 2 flushes. It seems the quality has gone up from a few years ago and they now guarantee their roses for 5 years if planted at the proper planting time. I don't know how good they are at honoring the guarantee but it seems like they have faith in their product.

Sharon

My MW did fabulously and probably gave me 100+ blooms last year per plant. the somehow got midge this year, so after the first flush it's been sporadic at best, but no fault of DA or the bush itself.

Wow! That's a lot of roses for one plant to produce! And first year too. That's a good argument for grafted roses as long as you can winter-protect graft. DA only offers 'Malvern' own root for some reason. Although if Austin lists MH at 10 ft and his roses tend to get bigger in the States, I'm not sure I want to see a Huey-grafted 'Hills'.

The 'Hills' would be alive alright... and doing their best to eat California!

Ac, bury the graft on roses at least 4 inches and you'll get better winter protection and less chance of Huey takeover.

Rebecca

Definitely what I'll do if something I want is only available or just has to be grafted, Rebecca! I don't know how Dr Huey took over at my old house, but I don't want to deal with him again!