Full Answer
1. GALLICA ROSES
Gallica Roses are the senior members of the Old Rose Family, they are the most ancient and also served as parentage for many of the other heritage roses.
2. DAMASK ROSES
Damask Roses are originally from the Mediterranean Basin, from which we have evidence that they have been cultivated for at least since 2000 BC. These roses were grown in Egypt on a commercial scale for the Roman market, especially in winter.
3. WHITE ROSES
White Roses (Rosa alba) are very special among the old roses. They are old roses but at the same time would enhance any modern clear design.
4. CENTIFOLIA ROSES A: THE PROVENCE ROSES
Most Centifolia roses have a lax and open habit which might need some stakes to support the stems especially when full with its gracious flowers. Some are bushy or can even be used as ground cover but most of them tend to flop over and in need of some support. Most people love the flowers of rosa centifolia.
5. CENTIFOLIA ROSES B: THE MOSS ROSES
The Moss Roses have all the characteristics of the Provence Roses with the addition of the obvious growth of moss like appearance around the flower buds, stalks, stems and branches and the balsamic scent of it. Comparing to other old roses, the moss rose is a fairly late addition, the first examples of which were recorded middle to late 1500.
When to Prune
Most old-fashioned or antique roses need only light pruning annually, as long as the plants have enough space for proper growth. For old-fashioned roses or species roses that bloom only one time per year, prune in spring after flowering. Prune old-fashioned and species roses that are repeat bloomers during their dormant season.
How to Prune
When pruning old-fashioned roses, remove dead and weak canes, and then just the tip of the remaining healthy canes. You can completely remove any old, woody canes if the center of the plant appears crowded.
About Pruning Roses
Pruning roses each year contributes to the longevity, health and productivity of the plant. The main purpose of proper pruning is to help develop and maintain strong plants that bear high-quality flowers. Rose bushes that are not pruned regularly or properly use their energy to produce twiggy, spindly growth bearing substandard flowers.
Cutting Flowers
When you cut flowers from a rose bush, you are actually pruning. When you cut flowers from the plant, make sure you leave enough stem to support the flower if placing it in a vase. Even though you cut the flower, it still needs the foliage, so make sure to leave at least two sets of leaves.
