“The Thorny Truth: Why Young People Are Turning Away from the Traditional Allure of Rose Bushes”

In the past, roses were a beloved feature in parks and gardens, with their vibrant blooms adding beauty to the surroundings. However, sales of locally grown rose bushes have declined over the years, labeled as outdated and overly sweet. Concerned by this downward trend, specialists are initiating a movement to rejuvenate the popularity of roses, with the upcoming Chelsea Flower Show serving as an ideal platform for rallying support.

Sales of domestically grown rose bushes have significantly decreased in recent years due to the perception that they are outdated and uncool. Renowned gardener David Domoney, a supporter of the cause, expressed to The Sunday Telegraph that younger generations often associate roses with something their grandparents would grow. However, he emphasizes the numerous benefits of roses, including their beauty, use in perfumes, health remedies, and even in cooking. Sales have dropped from 65 million a year in the 1960s to just five million last year. To promote the appreciation of roses, 5,000 rose plants have been distributed to community gardens in the UK, with plans to give away an additional 100,000 over the next ten years.

Sales of roses have plummeted over the past few decades, dropping from 65 million a year in the 1960s to just five million last year, according to expert estimates. David White, who serves as the managing director of Harkness Roses and is a supporter of the campaign, shared his insights on the matter. He reminisced about how roses used to be commonly seen in public parks and gardens when he was young. Since then, however, their popularity has waned due to the misconception that they are difficult to grow and require extensive pruning knowledge. White emphasized that the new varieties of roses are much simpler to cultivate, making them ideal for modern gardeners who seek easy maintenance and quick results in their outdoor spaces. He noted that a typical rose plant, costing around £15, can produce 100 flowers each year for 15 years, essentially amounting to just 1p per flower. White’s goal is to inspire all growers and breeders to breathe new life into the rose industry.