One of the widely planted
English Roses, Graham Thomas has proven itself to be an exceptional variety. This
David Austin variety caused quiet a stir when introduced at the Chelsea Flower Show in
1983 and from there took the gardening world by storm. Graham Thomas has proved to
be an excellent choice for growing in the US as it thrives in summers heat. The
flowers are cupped and of measure 4 inches across. The unusual rich pure yellow is
unmatched even in todays Hybrid Tea Roses. Growth is upright making it a bit taller
than the other English Roses we offer making it a perfect selection for climbing.
The plant is named for the late Graham Thomas a British plantsman and rosarian. Height:
Bush 5ft - as a climber 8ft
Fragrance: fresh Tea Rose scent
Year Introduced: 1983
Patented: Yes
Zones: 5 - 10 (protect well in colder areas of zone
5)
English Rose Culture:
Roses do their best in soils that are rich in organic matter and slightly on the acidic
side. Before planting add plenty of well rotted manure and compost. Mulch well
in the winter and again in the spring. Roses do not like to compete with other
plants so allow 24 inches of space for just the roots of the rose plant itself.
English roses look best when planted in groups of three and allowed to grow together and
become one dense shrub. We suggest that you plant in area that receives a minimum of
5 hours of direct sun (some afternoon shade will help preserve bloom colors).
Roses, especially the heavy blooming English varieties benefit greatly from a good feeding
program. Top dress the soil with a combination of blood and bone meals in early
spring and then again in midsummer. Do not feed to late in the growing season as
this can cause winter kill due to soft growth forming from fertilizing to late in the
season. Foliar feed every two to three weeks with fish emulsion or seaweed extract.
In colder climates winter protection may be required. To protect from winters
cold apply a ten inch deep mulch of pine bark or straw - remove promptly in the spring
before new growth begins to show.
Pruning:
Summer pruning and deadheading helps to encourage repeat flowering and makes a
neater more tidy plant. In very warm climates you may need to reduce the height of
the plant by 24 inches after flowering in order to properly control the size of the shrub.
Cooler climates can usually just dead head and selectively prune to shape as
desired.
Winter pruning is very easy and should be carried out in very early spring as soon
as new growth appears. Remove any weak or damaged stems and then reduce the
entire shrub by one third. Prune to adjust height and avoid thinning.
For more information see our guide on Gardening with English Roses.
David Austin's English Rose 'Graham Thomas'
