Glossary of Commom Rose Terms

Bareroot

Dormant plants sold in autumn, winter or early spring. 

Bud

The beginning of a new flower or leaf. 

Bud Union

The point where the rootstock is grafted to the flowering variety. The bud union can be seen as an enlarged area at the base of the plant, whether purchased as bareroot or in a container. The bud union is also used as a gauge to mark planting depth. 

Cane

Stem from the base of plant that supports foliage and flowers. 

Deadhead

To remove flowers after blooming. Deadheading sends energy to new flowers, not seeds. 

Disbud

 To remove smaller side buds on a stem to invigorate the main bud at the end of the stem. 

Graft

To join a scion (top part or stem) with a stock (bottom part or a stem with roots) to create a new plant.                                                                                                                                                       

Hip

Seed pod that forms from a spent blossom. Hips provide another bit of interest in fall after the blooms have gone. 

Hybrid

Created by crossing two different plants to combine their most desirable characteristics. Roses are hybridized to create new colours, increase disease resistance, improve fragrance, and manipulate size. 

Own Root

The entire plant is of the same variety (not grafted). 

Rootstock

Hybrid roses are grafted onto a host set of roots. The rootstock is selected for strength and hardiness. 

Sucker

A stem that grows out and up from the rootstock (therefore not from the grafted variety). Usually coming up from under ground level, it's highly recommended that they be removed so that the plants energy is directed to the desired plant.