Years ago most rose bushes only blossomed in spring, and sporadically during the summer. But today there is an infinite variety of rose bushes that bloom from spring until the winter cold sets in: late-blooming bushes, with single or double blossoms; the so-called old roses, which are usually very fragrant; climbing roses, bushy ones and low-set ones.

The latter include so-called carpet roses. Also, the variety of colors is almost unlimited. There is a rosh bush for every need and condition we have have, allowing us to enjoy roses in every corner of the garden. Within the bushy group there is a sub-group that includes low-lying roses which cover the ground and are known as carpet roses. They grow vigorously, bloom from spring until early fall and as their foliage is thick, they fight off weeds quite well.

These bushes tend to have blossoms that are small but copious. Well-known ones include the snow carpet rose, which is white and eliminates weeds; the fairy carpet has beautiful flowers in tones of pale or deeper pink; sweet dream features fragrant blossoms the color of peaches; bonica and pink bells are others. The blooming period is long with ground-covering roses, and lasts well into winter.

If the summer is mild, they will stay in bloom until the following spring.

These bushes should be planted between 70 cm and one meter apart from each other. The surrounding soil should be quilted in the first season to reduce weed growth. Once the bush grows it will be the roses themselves that suffocate the weeds.

Rose bushes are not picky about soil but they do like a dose of fertilizer in spring. For the blooming to be abundant, fertilize twice more during the summer. Carpet roses look best when planted in the same color, and in areas that are not going to be walked on, and in spots that are open and sunny.

They should be watered with sprinklers if they are planted in the ground, directly at the foot of each bush to keep the leaves and flowers from getting wet. Otherwise the bush can be attacked by Oidium-type fungi. Also watch out for plant lice and two-spotted spider mites. Rose bushes are prone to these pests.

Pruning should be light to stimulate both vertical and horizontal growth. When the bush begins to age, eliminate old, woody stems and cut off dry and sick branches, leaving young stems that are still able to blossom. Keep in mind that any carpet rose bush makes up for all this work with its beauty and other qualities.