Middle South
June, 2003
Regional Report
Web Finds
Black Spot 101
Okay, so I'm worried about blackspot, but that's because I've watched way too many roses succumb to it their first year in my garden, and the weather is right for big breakouts right now. To learn more about this fungal disease, check out the University of Arkansas' Web site on Black Spot of Rose.
Favorite or New Plant
Zepherine Drouhin
Zepphie's having a birthday! My favorite rose, a fragrant pink climber called Zepherine Drouhin, turns 135 this year. She's thornless, shade tolerant, and in two different gardens she's grown beautifully for me despite her reputation of being susceptible to disease. Classed as a bourbon type (named after a French island, not the drink), Zepherine blooms heavily in late spring, and in smaller spurts throughout the summer.
