Garden roses, also known as “English roses” are one of the flowers that we’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback about when people see them in arrangements and wedding bouquets we’ve done.

With many weddings and events today taking the “less is more” approach, garden roses have become increasing popular with the DIY crowd as well. From simple hand-tied wedding bouquets using just a single rose variety, or floating roses in bowls as centerpieces, garden roses are a great choice. These elegant and tasteful flowers are easy to work with, even for the design-challenged. And because of their unique look, your bouquets and centerpieces will have a different twist.

The best of the garden roses sold today were developed by rose breeder and author David Austin. And like many specialty flowers, David Austin roses are grown under license only. And even though they are more expensive than other hybrid varieties that are available, they are one of the most popular roses we use in the shop today.

Garden roses are very different from other roses you may be familiar with, due to the shape of the flower. Because of their cup-shaped appearance, large petal count and size, they are sometimes mistaken for peonies. In fact, we have used them as a substitute for peonies on occasion, when they’re not in season.

I personally like them because of their fragrance and character, as well as the wide range of colors that are available. Even though they are cut almost fully opened, they do last a surprisingly long time.

If you are considering garden roses as a floral option for your wedding, you can find information about on more than 30 varieties of the most-popular garden roses here. Or you can contact our shop for our current prices and availability.

• Roses for a Cause
• New rose varieties available from our shop
• Are roses getting their fragrance back?
• April in Paris has arrived – the 2008 Rose of the Year® winner.
• Our top flower picks for Mother’s Day, 2009