I ordered a set of varieties many years ago and maybe as many of half of them were not true to name. Pickering also has a history of for instance sending 'Eddie's Jewel' in place of 'Geranium', again this was many years ago now. (Also some Hortico/Pickering origin material of "Geranium" that has been planted and grown in my area has turned out to be a single pink, perhaps something known otherwise as Canina root-stock).

I suspect, because of the geographic area - and the comparative tenderness of many of the offerings - that there is no part of these operations where the plants consist of long term plantings that are viewed in flower, outside of field rows.

I had heard of these sad realities, Embothrium, but things seem to be much better at Hortico now. Nicole was very helpful and seemed very in touch with the roses. I'll post photos when they bloom.

Oooo! I have both of these on order from them too Sheila! They look good!

I too have seen an improvement in Hortico the last two years. I have an order for this spring coming in April from them. I am so happy to see this company improving.

Your roses look great, Sheila. I've had 1 1/2 grade roses in the past and they did just fine. Nice to know that after its horrible reputation Hortico has seemingly pulled up it socks and is trying to get back to being a reputable nursery.

I am virtually certain that both Cressida and St. Cecilia from Hortico will be the true varieties you ordered Sheila. The plant they used to sell as Cressida 4 or 5 years ago was not the correct variety. That issue has been resolved.

And yes, Hortico has pulled up their socks. In my dealings with them, they seem to be very interested in keeping many of the older, rarer varieties of all types in commerce.

I will have three plants; Jayne Austin, The Poet's Wife and Young Lycidas; arriving rom Horico in the next few weeks.

I hope you greatly enjoy your new roses and am sure they will do well for you.

Cheers, Rick

cheers

claire

Rick, Thank you for that reassurance. Are you the one who gave Hortico the real Cressida cuttings?

Thank you so much for doing that, Rick! I was so inspired by your efforts and can't wait to see them bloom. I will never go back to my Alaskan garden for fear of what you suspect has happened to yours. I really wish I could sneak in and rescue William III, since I'm having a terrible time finding him. Again thank you so much for sharing these treasures.

@Sheila z8a Rogue Valley OR, I saw William III on the list of roses grown at Fraser Valley Rose Farm in BC. I don't think it was ever available on regular offer, but maybe you could contact Jason and see if he could grow one for you? He's planning to offer shipping to the US next spring (he only ships bands once per year, in April).

Thank you Magda! I am thrilled about your idea.