Wednesday, March 29, 2023

Radio Times

Radio Times, Austin 1994

English rose 

Radio Times appeared in 1994 but didn't last long in the DA catalog. By the turn of the century this rose almost disappeared completely in Europe. Austin said that Radio Times didn't meet the health standards of their company but many many gardeners told me that Radio Times was one of their best varieties with an extremely strong Damask fragrance, especially in cooler weather. Cooler? Yes that's strange as fragrance is normally stronger in warm weather.
It's been a while ago since I saw a Radio Times rose, more than 20 years I think.
She has exquisite pink to light pink, almost apricot, very full, cupped blooms with that old fashioned look. They exude a very strong Damask or Old rose fragrance. Growth is vigorous and arching and she can reach 120X100 cm or 4X3 feet. Ideal for pots or against a white wooden fence or as a short pillar rose. Zone 5b to 10b
Reblooming is excellent and health is moderate. Blackspot can occur but not more frequently than other DA Roses. 
It's sad Radio Times is gone. All my favorites from the past are gone and forgotten. 
If you can buy her? Do it! 

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