Hello all! I hope you’ve had a wonderful weekend. It’s been gorgeous here in already beautiful East Tennessee.
As I was admiring the last of the roses in Renaissance Man’s garden, I remembered a field trip I’d already intended to share with you. But … it’s not too late yet. In fact, it turns out that the timing is perfect because this Thursday is the start of the 78th Annual Texas Rose Festival. Another Rose Queen’s lavish gown will be added to the collection that began in 1933.
Tyler, Texas holds the title of “Rose Capital of the Nation” and is home to the United States’ largest rose garden. What once was “nothing special” land is now 14 acres where over 38,000 rose bushes of 500+ varieties are grown amidst beautiful reflecting pools, walkways, and fountains.
You’ll see everything from the ever-popular Pink Double Knock Out roses to an entire section of 300 different David Austin English garden roses that was added in 2003.
There really is a Tyler Rose, too. It’s really prettier than this, but in late May when I was enjoying the garden, some rose varieties were past their prime. The Tyler Rose was one of them.
I had a lot of favorites …
I love that Tahitian Sunset one as my favorite. I love that color. If I could create one myself, though, it would probably have more yellowy orange at the tip to look like a vibrant night sky.
Always the diplomat, Regan was one of our smartest presidents!
What a fantastic Post with amazing photography. As a Texas Gal, I’m familiar with Tyler as the Rose Capital. I’ve been to Tyler, but not to the Rose Gardens. After seeing your photos, it’s sure a place I’d like to see in person. My favorite color of rose has already been named, and I can’t think of any thing better than ‘The Yellow Rose of Texas’.
Forget the tablescapes, look at that gown!! Sigh…no words, which is very odd for me don’t you know. 😉
Love this post.