Rosa hybrid 'Honey Bee'

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are attracted to the sweetly scented flowers. The blooms are especially appealing to honey bees.
• Wildlife Resistant: Some resistance to deer due to the thorny stems.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall (deciduous).
• Flowering Season: Late spring to fall (May to October).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-9

• Pollinator gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Borders and hedges
• Wildlife gardens
• Cut flower gardens

• Color: Glossy dark green leaves.
• Form: Compound, pinnate leaves with 5-7 serrated leaflets, providing a lush and healthy-looking backdrop to the vibrant blooms.
• Fall Interest: Leaves turn yellow before dropping in the fall.

• Color: Rich honey-yellow blooms that may fade to a soft yellow as they mature.
• Form: Double blooms with 20-30 petals, each flower measuring about 3-4 inches across.
• Bloom Time: Blooms continuously from late spring through fall, with multiple flushes throughout the season.
• Fragrance: Strong, sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators and adds to the sensory experience in the garden.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
• Planting Depth: Plant with the crown slightly below the soil surface. If planting bare root roses, soak the roots in water before planting.
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow for good air circulation and mature growth.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to encourage repeat blooming.
• Method: Remove dead or damaged wood, thin out crowded stems, and shape the plant as desired. Cut back old flowers to promote continuous blooming.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, provide winter protection by applying mulch around the base or wrapping the plant in burlap.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, water deeply and consistently, especially during dry spells.
• Soil Moisture: Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogged conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

• Light Exposure: Thrives in full sun. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is essential for optimal flowering and growth.

1. Harvesting Blooms:

• Timing: Cut flowers in the early morning when temperatures are cooler, and blooms are hydrated.
  
• Stage: Select blooms that are just beginning to open for longer vase life.
  
• Technique: Use sharp, clean pruners to make a diagonal cut above a leaf node.
  
• Post-Harvest Care: Immediately place cut stems in lukewarm water and remove any foliage that would be submerged to prevent bacterial growth.
  

2. Harvesting Rose Hips:

• Formation: Allow some flowers to remain on the plant after blooming to develop rose hips.
  
• Maturity: Harvest rose hips when they are firm and have turned a bright red or orange color, typically in late summer to early fall.
  
• Usage: Rose hips can be used to make teas, jams, or jellies, as they are rich in vitamin C.

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring and again in mid-summer after the first flush of blooms.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced rose fertilizer or an organic slow-release fertilizer to support healthy growth and abundant flowering.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from temperature fluctuations. Keep mulch away from the stems to prevent rot.
• Drought Tolerance: While roses prefer consistent moisture, 'Honey Bee' is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
• Pests and Diseases: Resistant to common rose diseases like black spot and powdery mildew. Regular watering at the base, good air circulation, and proper pruning help prevent fungal issues.

• Pollination Type: Pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other insects. The flowers are self-pollinating but benefit from the activity of pollinators.
• Rose Hips: In fall, Rosa 'Honey Bee' may produce small rose hips, which are attractive to birds and can be used in teas and preserves.

• Lavandula (Lavender)
• Nepeta (Catmint)
• Salvia
• Echinacea (Coneflower)