She is pretty....

I had this rose for years and it was extremely fragrant---- Florence

Michelle, I haven't tried digging up a sucker (I've only had suckering roses for two years, now). Theoretically, you should be able to dig it up, but perhaps someone with experience will answer. The new plant is sprouting off an underground stem. I suppose that until the root system of the new plant has developed a little, the plant might suffer when transplanted. (I don't know when the root system develops -- before, after, simultaneously with the above ground part?) Unless it's really close to the mother plant, the mother plant wouldn't be harmed. Use a sharp spade. Hopefully someone will tell us it's easy! I don't fertilize much -- a small amount of 10-10-10 in the spring, for all my roses and wildflowers. Sometimes again in late summer for a fall flush, unless we have drought, which we often do. I don't have a long experience with rugosas yet to know if I should be doing something else. Mike

Thank you Ingrid! Yes I am always amazed that these roses continue to survive and thrive on a busy, industrial street. During snowy winters we and our neighbors have to use salt to reduce the ice on the sidewalks and streets. and still the roses pull through. You are right on the money Melissa! I think the warehouse workers and artists who rent studio spaces around here do appreciate them! I'd like to think they help the wildlife as well. ;))