Security Benefits of Rose Bushes

The rose genus includes bushes and shrubs that grow in many parts of the world and their flowers are among the most well recognized. Many cultures have long prized the image of roses and many people take deep pride in the rose bushes that figure prominently in their gardens.

Yet, despite the better-known aesthetic aspect of rose bushes, many species also provide a measure of home security with their prickly thorns.

Rose Bush Security Benefits

Rose bushes vary in the density of thorns that they sprout. Some varieties produce only a few thorns while others grow them in relative profusion. Since many garden aficionados take much care in pruning their roses they may avoid the species that produce many thorns; however, for those who place a high value on home security, these species may be more desirable.

Rose Bush Aesthetics

The outstanding aesthetic characteristics of shrub roses are their flowers and seed pods known as "hips." The flowers bloom in hundreds of different varieties with varying colors, sizes, and scents. Many experts classify them according to the number of petals they produce, ranging from "single" roses that feature five petals to "double" which may produce as many as fifty petals. This enormous variety allows the homeowner many different choices for yard and garden landscaping.

Shrub roses generally grow to a height of four to six feet (about 11/4 to 1 4/5 meters); however they may grow as high ten feet (about 3 meters). They also generally grow as wide as they do tall and many varieties feature dense clusters of branches, leaves, and flowers.

Rose Bush Care and Maintenance

Different species of shrub rose offer tradeoffs in maintenance, aesthetics, and home security, offering advantages and disadvantages. Many grow profusely and bloom continuously, others resist pests and disease, may adapt to climates, or require infrequent pruning.

One variety that many homeowners favor is the Saltspray Rose which grows long thorns, adapts to many different soil types, climates, and require little maintenance and pruning. One of their few requirements is well-drained soil as they do not tolerate flooding. Another thorny rose type is the Topaz Jewel variety but it fades in winter.

Roses generally require full sun. They may adapt to cold climates, however if temperatures dip below twenty degrees below zero Fahrenheit (twenty-eight degrees below zero Celsius) they may die. A few species may survive colder climates.

Planting and Pruning Rose Bushes

Experts recommend using roses that are planted with their own root systems rather than grafted root systems in these cases. Black spot and canker are two diseases that attack shrub roses and that can only be cured by pruning.

Other diseases include various types of fungus that may be controlled by fungicide after pruning. Insect pests include aphids, slugs, midges, thrips,beetles, spider mites, scale, leafcutter bees, caterpillars, leafhoppers, and borers. Most of these insects can be controlled through insecticides, miticides, or soapy water spray.