I would recommend Gertrude Jekyll for colder zones. It is very hardy. I don't have too much trouble with blackspot in my no spray zone 5a garden although Lady Emma Hamilton sure gets some. Mary Rose is also good. Rugosa roses such as Pierette Pavement or Foxy Pavement are another alternative. Hardy Buck roses like Earth Song or Country Dancer are also hardy and disease resistant but, like rugosas, do not have old fashioned bloom form. Easy Elegance roses are also disease resistant.

Well done, Rosie. Nice composition.

Thanks Carol! Tahitian Sunset consistently has at least one or two blooms. This photo shows the end of a recent full flush. TS didn't like her original spot last year and grew very little. She immediately responded to her new location which is only a few feet away but she's much happier. I give her extra water which I think she likes a lot. The bugs unfortunately love this rose too but they've eased up. I think you'll like her but she might be a spotty bloomer in her first year. I recommend that you pot her up and give her a try! Ann

Thanks BenT! Charles de Gaulle is very slow to get settled, grow and bloom. I believe he's in year three for me and he's finally blooming more but he's still small. I'm not sure what the "answer" is - whether he needs more water or food? Maybe he just needs time. Ann