by Peter Winne
Late June, with its blooming arches and brilliant first flush of blossoms may draw the biggest crowds, but park regulars know the rose garden displays a second, albeit subtler, peak in early autumn. Cool September nights signal the roses to produce one final burst of color and growth. And connoisseurs will tell you that the hues are richer now than in mid-summer heat. As a result, most of the repeat bloomers at Elizabeth Park–pretty much everything except our once-blooming ramblers and heritage roses–look their best from mid-September until the first frost. Speaking of, the weather report calls for freezing temperatures any day now, so this week may be your last chance to see the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden in all its autumn glory! If you’re looking for recommendations, this gardener’s preferred cultivars include Orchid Romance®, South Africa™, and Julia Child™. But if you can’t make it out enjoy these recent photos of the garden, courtesy of Mike George, Lauren Grace Michaud, and Zoe Chatfield!
A Rose a Week 