Joe Armistead, another local rose expert, is President of the Ramer Rose Society, which in turn is a member of the American Rose Society that organized in 1892.  Today, the national organization serves some 15,000 members and 400 chapters like Ramer.  All are dedicated to the cultivation, enjoyment and promotion of America’s favorite flower.

The national office is headquartered in Shreveport, Louisiana.  The center is home to a lovely garden of over 20,000 rose bushes comprising nearly 400 varieties of both modern and old roses, and local members have attended shows there.

Made official in 1986, the rose was crowned America’s Floral Emblem, having been written into law by President Ronald Reagan.  Ellen Wilson, wife of Woodrow Wilson, is credited for creating the world famous rose garden at the White House.

When asked how he tends the many beautiful roses in his carefully plotted rose garden, Joe laughingly answers, “being retired!”  He cares for 225 different varieties.  “It’s a full time job, but its lots of fun,” adds Joe.  He knows his hobby well and readily shares good information and gardening tips if you want to know.

And, if you are into raising roses, you are always delighted to hear something that helps.

He knows the varieties well, those that grow in the south, as well as the hybrids.  He has fun with his rose growing.  He keeps the “Royals” together, (varieties named after British royalty) and his sense of humor spurred putting Dolly Parton in the middle of a row between Double Delight.

“The tough job comes in the spring when you are pruning or building a new bed,” he says.  He waters all the rose bushes 30 minutes every other day.  His water is dispensed by a system that reduces water waste and distributes more proficiently to each bush.

Joe, a Ramer native, resides in his beautiful 1830 vintage family home along side of Highway 94.  Partially renovated at the turn of the century, it has retained its dignity and southern charm.  The front walkway encourages you to continue on the path so you might discover the lovely colors waiting in the rose garden.

There, along with friends and co-members of the rose society, they laugh and learn by their mistakes and discuss the latest ideas and methods of producing prettier and more resilient roses.

Another avid enthusiast is Mary Iva Sellers, who adds yet another dimension to local rose expertise.

“Twenty five years ago my mother fell and broke her ankle and was hospitalized.  As she recuperated, she received many flowers, but the most beautiful bouquet was of homegrown roses.  They were so wonderful; I decided then that I would have roses in my yard.”  Her new addition to an already gorgeous rose garden is a testament to her resolve to continue to grow wonderful roses.

Her advice is straight forward – “Spray, Water, Fertilize, and don’t over crowd.”  It works well for her.  Her fabulous flowers range in all colors and quantity.  Her favorite variety?  The prettiest one on the day you ask.