Beautiful Blossoms

Roses evoke pictures of beauty, elegance and romance, bringing visions of beautiful bouquets presented on special occasions or lavishly appointed gardens. People cringe at the thought of growing roses, though, thinking it is far too difficult.

“Everybody loves roses but not everyone is confident they can grow roses in Wilmington’s climate,” says Vonnie Fry, a member of the Wilmington Cape Fear Rose Society’s tour planning committee.

The Rose Society is an encouraging group of enthusiasts whose mission is to help other people love roses and to grow them successfully in Wilmington.

“We are a nonprofit group who wish to share the beauty of our rose gardens in full bloom,” says Fry.

Mary Barwick joined the society after purchasing a home with a rose garden that she wanted to keep.

“I knew nothing about gardening, but I love roses,” she says.

Barwick’s roses have flourished since she joined 18 years ago.

“Members are friendly and always willing to help other members and the public with their roses,” she says.

The society’s annual Rose Garden Tour takes place Saturday May 4. It is free and open to the public. A map to the gardens on the tour will be available on the society’s site, wcfrs.org. 

Garden owners will be available to answer questions about growing roses in the South.

“Visitors learn about roses as they enjoy a sensuous treat,” Barwick says.

Even those not previously interested may find themselves moved to become educated and give rose gardening a whirl.