Actually Sue, I am intending to come out west again within a few months. I was in California in June/July of 2006 for a week or so, and had a blast! I had wanted to walk 'neath those stately redwoods since I first saw a film about them in elementary school, a long LONG time ago! Since I have been there in summer, I am shooting for a winter or early spring visit next time. I would love to meet some of my California rose friends while I am there this time! Allison

I am also saddened by the news as I'm sure we all are. What's even sadder is that it's another sign of the economic hard times -- they just don't sell enough to pay for staying open. At least the Brenham location and their mail order business will not be discontinued. Many great rose growers have closed for good in the last couple of years and others are on the brink. I so enjoyed being able to view the roses growing in the landscape before buying, but most appreciated were the unusual and hard to find companion plants they offered, as well as their workshops. Here is a link that might be useful: Here's the newsletter about their closing ...

I go to the ARE in Brenham yearly in the spring, try to time it when the bluebonnets are in bloom. Been doing this for years. Not once I have I ever seen it in anything but pristine condition, with all the roses in full bloom, the beds looking glorious and everything neat and well kept. I try to go in fall as well - but didnt make it last year. Not as much is in bloom, as is to be expected. I have also been in summer, when the heat is horrible and yes, the roses in pots were a little bedraggled but were watered. I have bought them then - once they get planted, they take off like gangbusters. This place in spring is like heaven. I would suggest to those who werent impressed to go at bluebonnet time - I know you would be impressed. No garden looks good all the time and it is certainly possible that Mike is doing some cutting back certain times a year with employees to maintain business. Its a huge place to care for. But please for those of you who were not impressed - do try to go when the bluebonnets bloom and I know you will be as enthralled as I am every spring. I meet a friend from Houston, we take a picnic and eat at the tables under the trees and the time I spent there inspires and invigorates me. The only other nursery that compares is Blue Moon in Tyler. They dont have as many roses but are another incredible sight to behold and every gardner within driving distance should go. Anyone suffering from stress and high blood pressure should go to these 2 nurseries when they are at their peak and you could throw away your blood pressure medicine!!

Here's an update for this Saturday: Here is a link that might be useful: Things to Buy and Things to See ...