Oh gosh, I hate to disagree with Mr. Rippetoe! But . . . .

The ARS 2017 Handbook for Selecting Roses says these ratings are "not only the national garden performance rating, but also data on classification, color, number of petals and date of registration or introduction. Every rose in commerce that has a current garden performance rating, easily the majority of the varieties in this listing, has been included. In addition, roses that did not earn ratings but that are carried by a number of nurseries are included. Finally, new introductions that have not yet had an opportunity to earn a rating are shown." (In each case, the ARS printed the word GARDEN in bold.). ARS members are encouraged to download a Roses in Review each year asking for garden input first, in many categories. There's an optional short questionnaire at the bottom for exhibition input. They stress that part is optional.

I use the ARS rating second to the comments on Help Me Find when purchasing new roses. It can be a big investment so all the available information guides me.

Rob, I follow your rose breeding efforts, along with others, and appreciate how much you all share on the topic. Such fascinating plants!