Rose Breeder  

Listing last updated on Wed Dec 2024

Texas
United States

I hail from Deep In The Heart of Texas, Bastrop County that is. I began hybridizing roses in 2003 after hearing a program given by Ray Ponton and Robert Stiba on the subject. I take my inspiration from the men in my life. From my Swiss-born Grandfather, a farmer who loved to grow roses and experiment with growing all types of plants. From my Dad, a South Texas cotton farmer who taught me the benefit of hard work and the promise of "next year". From my husband, who had to endure trimming around his stepmother's 80 rose bushes on his hands and knees with handheld grass clippers; but, still encourages and enables my hobby.

Many hybridizers have a well reasoned plan for their hybridizing program. I must admit my philosophy in the beginning was to throw some pollen around and see what sticks. My beginning goal was to produce a good yellow rose to name in memory of my Dad. While I have made some progress in that goal I am still chasing the dream. In 2012, we experienced a summer that saw 90 days of 100+ temperatures and drought conditions, so heat tolerant roses are very important to me. I also gravitate to roses that are easy to propagate; let's face it, if we can't reproduce it, we can't share it. I also prioritize for high petal count and fragrance.

While I don't expect to reach the lofty heights of the famous hybridizers, I will be happy to enjoy the blessings(roses) the Good Lord sends my way while taking time to stop and smell the roses.