Hello Fellow GRS Members and Friends,
Here we are again with a new year and unexpected challenges which we will need to address with everyday duties and responsibilities. For me, aging and the lack of energy is my biggest pothole. The mind says yes, while the body tells me to slow down, put off until tomorrow. But this does not help our roses to stay healthy and productive. Letting things wait will not serve us well; it will create more problems and lead to many of our older rosarians giving up growing roses. Keeping positive in regards to what and how much we can do will go a long way in keeping our rose interest and activities alive. For me, working smarter is the first step in keeping my hobby alive; plus keeping me going and staying active. So, don’t let age bring your rose growing interest to a halt.
The Deep South District Mid-Winter Meeting is just a few days off. A perfect opportunity for us all to come and partake in the experience of learning from others. The biggest plus is that this event is being held right here in our back yard. The Best Western Hotel on 39th Ave., just west of I-75 is the closest these conventions will ever get for GRS members. Vendors will have available rose care supplies and plants for us to take home, no taxes or shipping cost; what a savings. Jean and I will be getting all we need to last the entire 2024 growing season, so please plan to attend. To ensure a seat for the banquet meal, you need to register by 1-15-24. If you have never attended one of the DSD conventions, this one will not disappoint you.
Our meeting for January 14th is being presented by our own member, Kathy Porter. Companion Plants for Roses is the topic. This will provide an insight to how we can add an extra touch to the garden beauty where roses are the basic garden plants. Kathy has done a lot of research and put a good deal of time in this program. You will enjoy it and it will be great for us to show our support and gratitude.
We will be putting our spring pruning program off until March when we will have a pruning demonstration at our home and garden. Jean Giesel has put together a nice program on “Rose Gardens Across America” for February. This will be a fun program too.
I hope to see you all on Sunday, the 14th at the Tower Road Branch Library.
Ralph Stream, Master Rosarian, President
