A Florist's Guide to Blue Moon Roses
Blue Moon roses are a stunning hybrid tea variety that captures the heart of many with their enchanting lavender-blue hue and delightful fragrance. Also known for their elegant long stems and full blooms, these roses are a popular choice for both arrangements and gardens. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding, growing, and using Blue Moon roses.
Characteristics
Colour: The stunning lavender-blue petals have a creamy underside, creating a beautiful contrast.
Fragrance: Blue Moon roses possess a strong, sweet scent that adds to their allure.
Bloom Size: These roses typically feature large, well-formed blooms that can reach up to 12 cm in diameter.
Growth Habit: They are vigorous, upright growers with sturdy stems, making them ideal for cut arrangements.
Bloom Time: Blue Moon roses bloom from late spring to early autumn, providing a continuous display when regularly pruned.
Growing Blue Moon Roses
Site Selection
Choose a sunny location, as Blue Moon roses thrive in full sunlight. Aim for at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil Preparation
Opt for well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A pH level between 6.0 and 6.8 is ideal. Improve poor soil by mixing in compost to enhance drainage and nutrients.
Planting
Spacing: Space your Blue Moon roses about 60 cm apart to allow for good air circulation.
Depth: When planting, dig a hole that is as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Ensure that the graft union (swelling on the stem) is level with the soil surface.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and then continue a regular watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Care and Maintenance
Fertilisation: Feed your roses with a balanced fertiliser formulated for roses throughout the growing season, especially after pruning and during active growth periods.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing stems, and shape the plant to encourage air circulation.
Pest Control: Monitor for common pests such as aphids and spider mites. Use suitable organic treatments or insecticidal soap when necessary.
Using Blue Moon Roses in Arrangements
Blue Moon roses can be a standout feature in floral arrangements due to their unique colour and fragrance. Here are some suggestions for incorporating them:
Bouquets
Combine Blue Moon roses with white lilies or cream roses for a classic and elegant look.
For a vibrant arrangement, mix them with rich purples and yellows like calla lilies and sunflowers.
Centrepieces
Use them in low arrangements with greens like eucalyptus or ferns for a rustic feel.
Pair them with other textured flowers, such as thistles or spiky alliums, for a more contemporary arrangement.
Special Occasions
Blue Moon roses are a thoughtful choice for weddings, anniversaries, and other significant celebrations. They symbolise love and admiration, making them an ideal flower to express deep feelings.
Conclusion
Blue Moon roses offer beauty, fragrance, and versatility, enhancing any floral design or garden space. With proper care and an understanding of their characteristics, these magnificent flowers can thrive and bring joy for many seasons.
