Rosarian’s Garden – Tom Carruth Story by: Will Funk - Photos by: Gene Sasse |
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When you imagine the landscape surrounding the home of Weeks Roses Research Director, Tom Carruth, one might assume that it is full of his work. Yes, he has 50 or so roses in his garden. But the design is really not centered around roses that fill his daily work. Tom likes to mix his roses with other plants and design elements. You won’t find a formal rose garden in his Southern California home. He advises the he doesn’t like, “the stiffness of a regimented rose garden.” In fact he doesn’t even fill his garden with only his own varieties of roses. Tom says many of his plants provide memories of friends and relatives. (Scent is a powerful memory trigger.) |
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Tom looks for complementary plants such as mixing in bulbs for winter color. He also favors plants with a shallow root system near his roses, using ornamental herbs such as oregano. For backgrounds you will see the use of tree roses in his garden. These taller roses create dimension by adding height and also help promote better air circulation, allowing for space around other roses. For texture Tom favors the use of foliage, and not just green. He advises that there are many possibilities to add color and texture by using variegated varieties or other hues such as burgundy. Palm trees are also used to create bold accents. Tom believes foliage and structure are as important as color in landscape design. And talk about designing his yard…there are only two plants remaining from when he purchased the home (and they both should be honored for surviving the ‘cut’). Part of Tom’s design also involved evaluating the best locations for plants, including selecting areas for his roses that receive ample sunlight. |
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What are some of the favorite roses in his garden? Tom mentions the red and bright white striped climber Fourth of July first. This vigorous bloomer was one of Tom’s introductions in 1999 and was the first climber to win All-American Rose Selections honors in 23 years! No wonder it’s one of his favorites. Topsy Turvy, with brilliant scarlet clusters flashing white reverses, fills his garden with its repeating blooms throughout the season. Topsy Turvy is another of Tom’s introductions through Weeks Roses. Brilliant white clusters on his 37 foot Sally Holmes climber also fill the yard with her radiant beauty. |
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Other design elements are incorporated in the yard including the use of pathways and structures. Diagonal lines create a spacious feel and allow better use of small areas. Water features are located in both the front and back yards. The sounds of splashing water help to both draw wildlife and drowned out urban clamor. Birds are attracted to the sound of running water as are other critters such as raccoons (although Tom says that he prefers the birds over the sometimes plant damaging raccoons)! | ||
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