Nigel Hawthorn

General Discussion
1

… is for sale at Heirlooms. They had about 20 or so for sale. Its retty rare, so if you have always wanted it, now is the time to act. The mature plant size is about 2’x 2’. Its definitely a border plant. It kind of looks like a dwarf rock rose (Cistus) to me because of the textured, desert-like foliage :stuck_out_tongue: Also, Heirlooms is currently carried another unlisted rose, which I almost bought, called Petite Francoise. I guess its a polyantha from 1915. It was among their groundcover types, so I was confused when I saw it because it looked like it had wichuran foliage like the rest. But I guess its fairly old. I am guessing, like The Fairy, its of both multiflora and wichurana lineage. If I was in the position right now, I would have bought it. It could be potentially useful in garden type hybrids.

I inquired about this years sales at Heirlooms because I was afraid it could be a bad year for them just like everyone else. They said it was a great year, and that they actually grew in customer base. They felt it was mainly because Edmunds took a hike. They said that the only low point was their annual August sale was lower that expected. I said that in previous years they used post cards. They used email this year. I explained that it is good to cut down on waste and cost, but there are specific things where human touch is more worthwhile. I explained how places like Heirlooms is a very tangible experience. I compared Heirlooms to the Portland metro, which is highly diverse much like their rose selections and various gardens. So, I said, a lot of people actually will set out the post card on their fridge/calander/kitchen table every year and then go like its an adventure much like any of us from the area will go elsewhere for the day. Its a pretty common thing to do here because of the diverse cultures and geographics. They took note of this. I told them that I as happy that Heirlooms was doing well since so many others are fading, and that it wold be sad if Heirlooms disappeared since it very much is a part of the culture here.

2

I went to Heirloom last week and bought 15 or so varieties. I went without much of a plan for buying. Now that I’ve been there, I’ll have a better idea of what I want/need. I was pretty impressed with the garden area and test beds.

I’ve got to get busy and make more room. I need a tractor, top soil and 27 hour days.

3

Thats a lot, Jeff! If I knew you were going, I would have met ya there to say hi. Their gardens are amazing. I especially love the fact that they are attempting to complete an entire AARS bed even though it really won’t warrant them any sales from the idea. Its cool to see some of the original winners. They look to be at about 85%, which is amazing.

…according to my original post, I seriously shouldnt write when sleep deprived :confused:

4

Jeff, I have a tractor and top soil (they say you could grow a baby in my soil), and they don’t seem to help much… I think the 27hr days are the key :wink: Oh… and no day job :frowning: