The Hybrid Tea: Classic Elegance In A Rose

A modern rose, the Hybrid Tea Rose is the result of 2 old timers getting together: the Hybrid Perpetual and the Tea Rose. These magnificent modern flowers grow on long stems and bloom throughout the year. Although this rose gives off only a faint scent, it makes up for this shortcoming with its many petals and tall stature. The Hybrid Tea Rose has been referred to as "your basic rose on a stick." These are the most popular roses to give or receive on special occasions.

"Rose on A Stick"

A Hybrid Tea Rose will look fabulous in any garden. They are happiest when planted in rows by themselves. It's much easier to tend to them this way.

Be sure to keep this area weed-free. These roses, like most flowers, do not take well to weeds. Space your plants approximately 24 inches apart to ensure a good growth habit.

If you're up for the challenge of growing hybrid tea roses, plant them this spring and start a tradition.

Thornless Varieties

Many gardeners steer clear of the Hybrid Tea Rose because they're turned off by the idea of thorns. Well, the wonderful thing about this flower is that there are actually several thornless varieties! When you're shopping, look for roses with tags that read "smooth" on the label.

You can find these roses in every color of the rainbow, except blue.

Water Generously

Hybrid Tea Roses require plenty of water during hot weather, especially if the hot weather is accompanied by dryness. Although most gardens require a good soaking every 2 weeks, some gardens require a weekly soaking. Regardless of the schedule, if the ground looks dry and cracked, you should water your roses.

Placing mulch around your roses is a very good idea. The mulch will help prevent weeds and conserve moisture.

Sunlight is Essential

The Hybrid Tea Rose will most likely reach its full height in about 3 years. Even after pruning, the flower will grow back to this height annually. Most modern roses, such as the Hybrid Tea, live a span of 6 or 7 years -- even longer if the flower has been given exceptional care.

It's important that your roses get plenty of sunlight. Roses require a minimum of 6 hours of sunshine a day, including morning sunlight. The morning sun will dry up excess moisture and dew, which will help prevent diseases from developing.

How to Care for Your Hybrid Teas

In February, when your flowers are dormant, you'll want to prune your roses. Your first step will be to remove dead branches and damaged canes.

In colder climates, you'll most likely have to cut all the old damaged wood. Look for lively green canes. Those are the canes that will produce buds in the spring.

In warmer areas, remove any existing leaves from the plant to promote new growth. Lastly, remove any debris from your garden. Now you're ready for spring. As spring approaches and your roses begin to grow, you should fertilize your home garden with a high-nitrogen fertilizer.