Some Rose Show Tips

Enjoy the energy of our fabulous TRS Rose Show this June. And Thanks for continuing to make this a legendary Rose Society.

Here are some suggestions for entering your roses in our annual Rose Show.

How to select a rose or spray in your garden

• Cut your roses in the early evening on the day before the show.
• Exhibition bloom stage is usually considered about 2/3 open.
• One-bloom entries should have side buds removed. It is best to do this well before the show, so the removal is not so obvious. But don’t let this stop you…
• A spray consists of two or more blooms. A bud is not considered a bloom.
• You must include leaves on the stem. Cut the stem longer than you think you will need and immediately put it in water.
• Put a label on your rose stem so you’ll know the name the next day.
• Re-cut the stem under water to make sure the rose will continue to “drink”.
• Put the container in a cool dark place overnight (somewhere where the cat won’t chew on it).
• Check your Rose Show schedule in advance for opening times, rules, and regulations. Note the classes where your roses might belong. Then gather your tools together for early the next morning.

Next morning, early: Gather up your tools and grab the Show Schedule. Carefully transport your roses to the show, find a table for your work, & start gathering the right size vases. Volunteers and other exhibitors will help you get started.

How to groom your roses at the table

• Remove spray residue from the leaves with a cotton ball dipped in water (some people use a piece of old nylons).
• Remove any critters that may be present – a soft, tiny artist’s brush or cotton swab is handy for removing specks.
• “Fuss” with the bloom if it needs to be more symmetrical.
• The length of stem should be in proportion to bloom size.
• Wedging is allowed – use the green plastic wedges provided to help the rose stand up straight if necessary.

The Rose Show schedule & Tags

• Re-check the rose show schedule for rule and regulation details.
• Determine which class to enter your rose in. If this is your 1st show, go directly to Section G, Novice/Junior Classes. Check the rules listed for novices for other classes you can enter, including arrangements.
• Pick up entry tags and fill them out; 1 for each entry.

• Fill the tag out carefully & refer to the schedule.
  • Enter the class number and the name of the rose.
  • Check for the correct spelling using a reference book – they will be available at the show.
  • Put your name in the spot on the bottom and fold the tag so your name will not be visible.
  • Attach the entry tag to the vase using a rubber band.

Presentation

• A specimen bloom should have a stem long enough to balance the bloom and carry it proudly.
• The stem of a bloom or spray should look as natural and graceful as it does in your garden with the leaves clearly visible.
• “Stem-on stem” where a portion of the previous stem is attached to the main stem is now subject to penalization if distracting.
• Remove any faded blooms or stubs of blooms from your sprays. Remove or trim any leaves that are damaged by insects or disease, leaving enough foliage to complement the bloom.
• Make sure you remember to put water in the vase and that there is enough water left to keep your rose happy for the day.
• Put your entry in the right spot. There will be a large sign directing you to the general location and class numbers for the exact spot.

Remember – this is supposed to be fun!

• If you are in doubt about any of the above, ask!
• Enjoy all the roses. This is a great place to learn . . .
• Bring a pad of paper to jot down the names of all the roses you want to add to your garden.