Rosa hybrid 'William Baffin'

• Wildlife: This rose attracts various types of beneficial wildlife.
• Pollinators: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are drawn to the vibrant blooms, making it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
• Birds: In late fall, the rose hips that form after the blooms attract birds, which feed on them as a natural food source.

• Seasonality: Deciduous, losing its leaves in winter and regrowing in spring.
• Blooming Season: 'William Baffin' blooms heavily in early summer, with repeat blooming cycles continuing into fall.
• Winter Dormancy: Goes dormant in winter, returning each spring with vigorous new growth and blooms.

Climbing & Trellises:
Trained as a climber, it can reach 8–10 ft or more, making it perfect for arbors, trellises, and walls.

Fences & Screens:
Its dense growth and long canes are ideal for covering fences or providing privacy screens.

Specimen Plant:
Its showy, long-lasting blooms and vigorous form make it a focal point in large landscapes.

Cold Climate Gardens:
One of the hardiest roses available (Zone 2–3), making it excellent for northern regions.

Pollinator Gardens:
Continuous blooming draws in bees and butterflies throughout the season.

• The foliage is dark green and glossy, providing a striking backdrop to the vibrant pink flowers.
• Leaves are compound, with 5 to 7 serrated leaflets that maintain a healthy, clean appearance throughout the season.
• ‘William Baffin’ is resistant to common rose diseases such as black spot and mildew, ensuring its foliage remains attractive all season long.

• The flowers are semi-double, a deep rosy pink, and measure about 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
• Each bloom features a cluster of yellow stamens at its center, offering a cheerful contrast to the pink petals.
• The flowers are slightly fragrant and appear in large clusters, making this rose an eye-catching display on trellises and arbors.

• Plant in early spring or fall to allow the plant to establish roots before the growing season or winter dormancy.
• Choose a well-drained site with fertile soil enriched with organic matter such as compost or manure.
• Space plants about 5 to 6 feet apart if planting multiple climbing roses to give them room to spread.

• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain the plant's shape and encourage healthy growth. Prune lightly throughout the growing season to deadhead spent blooms and encourage continuous flowering.
• Training: As a climbing rose, ‘William Baffin’ benefits from being tied or trained to supports like trellises, fences, or arbors. Regularly secure the long canes to keep them in place as they grow.
• Maintenance: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots during winter.

• Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. Once established, water deeply once a week, depending on rainfall.
• Avoid watering the foliage to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.

• Full sun is essential for optimal growth and flowering. 'William Baffin' requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• In extremely hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent flower fade.

For Cut Flowers:

• Harvest blooms in the morning when buds are half open.
  
• Use sharp shears to cut just above a leaf node, ensuring a long, sturdy stem.
  
• Strip off lower foliage and immediately place in water.
  
• Blooms are semi-double and look best when grouped in casual arrangements.
  

For Rose Hips:

• Allow some flowers to go to seed instead of deadheading.
  
• Hips will ripen to an orange-red shade by late summer or fall.
  
• Harvest when firm and colored for use in crafts, potpourri, or wildlife support.

Fertilize in early spring as new growth appears, using a balanced rose fertilizer. Continue feeding every 4 to 6 weeks throughout the growing season, stopping in late summer to allow the plant to harden off for winter.

• Pests & Diseases: 'William Baffin' is highly resistant to common rose diseases such as black spot and powdery mildew. However, keep an eye out for pests like aphids or Japanese beetles and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
• Cold & Heat Tolerance: Exceptionally cold-hardy, ‘William Baffin’ can withstand temperatures as low as USDA Zone 3, making it an ideal choice for northern climates. In warmer regions, provide adequate water to help the plant thrive during hot summers.
• Drought Tolerance: While moderately drought-tolerant once established, ‘William Baffin’ performs best with regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods.

‘William Baffin’ is pollinated by bees and other flying insects. Its showy blooms are a key attraction for pollinators in the garden.

Choose plants that either highlight its color, complement its form, or support pollinators:

• Clematis – Twines easily through rose canes and offers contrasting bloom shapes.
  
• Nepeta (Catmint) – Soft lavender blooms and aromatic foliage create a calming base.
  
• Salvia – Adds vertical interest and is pollinator-friendly.
  
• Lavender – Complements roses visually and helps repel pests naturally.
  
• Echinacea or Rudbeckia – Offer bright, daisy-like forms that bloom in summer and provide seasonal contrast.
  
• Hostas (for base planting in partial shade areas) – Add texture and lush foliage beneath tall canes.