Has anyone had experience of a rose called "Betty's Smile" ?

AnniD · March 2023

My Dad would like to plant something in memory of my late Mum in their back garden, and l have come across this rose. I know he would like something with her name, the only other thing l can find is a magnolia and that isn't suitable.
This sounds ideal but l would appreciate some feedback before l place an order.

https://rvroger.co.uk/rosa-bettys-smile/

All comments, good or bad, much appreciated

Nollie · March 2023

Afraid not, Anni, you’ve probably already come across Betty Harkness while searching but a good breeder and fragrant too:

https://www.roses.co.uk/product/540006/rose-betty-harkness-bare-root#information

Or there is always David Austin’s Elizabeth..

AnniD · March 2023

Thanks @Nollie, l know it's a bit of a long shot.

Thing is, Mum was known by everyone as Betty right from when she was a child, so Elizabeth doesn't seem to connect to her, if you know what l mean.
I did look at Betty Harkness, but wasn't too keen on the colour and l know it's not Dad's cup of tea.

I know he would like something that includes her name, and he always loved her smile, so this rose seems perfect.

Nollie · March 2023

You could ask on the rose thread Anni, but I don’t think anyone has it, that I recall anyway. I would normally say to those looking for a specific named rose in memory of someone, just pick a good rose in their favourite colour and get a little plaque made saying, in this case ‘Betty’s Rose’. However, the serendipity of Betty’s Smile is too good to pass by so maybe just go for it! Your Dad will be thrilled I’m sure.

GardenerSuze · March 2023

@AnniD I agree with @Nollie A rose that is known to flower well, with a lovely scent, is a colour your mum would have loved would be theway I would go. No need for a plaque those who loved her will knows it's her rose anyway and that is what matters.
I am sure she will be in your thoughts today. Suze

AnniD · March 2023

Thank you @Nollie, it does certainly seem to be serendipity. I am going to speak to Dad later and will see what he says

@GardenerSuze, yes the first Mothers Day without her is not going to be easy, but she will certainly be in my thoughts. Yesterday my OH and l planted "Bring me Sunshine" in our garden in her memory thanks to a recommendation by @Marlorena.

Busy-Lizzie · March 2023

That looks a pretty rose and it says it's disease resistant, also it's not expensive - so why don't you give it a try. They are the only nursery that has it and you can order until the end oof March, so not much time left. If it doesn't do well or you are disappointed with it you can always choose another rose later, but bear in mind that it can take up to 3 years for a rose to settle in and grow well.

AnniD · March 2023

Yes, l definitely want to go for bare root @Busy-Lizzie and time is running out. Dad has lovely soil in his garden thanks to Mum's work over the years so it would certainly get a good start. Thank you

Edited to add, l have just checked and both options are sold out. I will contact them but it looks as if l will have to wait a year until they're available again. Glad l didn't mention it to Dad.

Nollie · March 2023

Oh that’s a shame Anni ☹️ I prefer bare root too, but you could consider waiting until the potted ones are available.

carol.bleasdale · June 2023

Here’s my Betty’s Smile from R V Roger, purchased I’m memory of my Aunt Betty. It’s a beautiful rose and seems to be resistant to disease.

AnniD · June 2023

I managed to obtain one and it has produced a couple of blooms already. My Dad is very pleased with it and you are right @carol.bleasdale, it does seem to be a very healthy rose

Has anyone had experience of a rose called "Betty's Smile" ?

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