Growing & using Andrea Miniature Rose
Soft pink petals are lined with silvery shades of pink and white on the back. One of Ralph Moore’s roses (introduced in 1971), Andrea has a classic rose shaped flower and can often have as many as seven flowers in one cluster. The perfectly shaped buds are ideal for drying or using in fresh crafts like our fresh Herbal Wreath. About mid summer, Andrea starts making rose hips which make both a nutritious tea and can be used crafts.
Like all roses, miniature roses are sun loving and fairly drought resistant. Plant in well drained soil and fertilize with an organic fertilizer in the spring. Dead canes can be pruned anytime but most pruning occurs in the fall when we shape the plant to the desirable height and width. All rose petals are edible, if grown organically, and make attractive garnishes for salads. They can be added after cooking to almost any dish. Whole buds can be used to decorate cakes or other confections. Before using any flower in food, a sample flower should be pulled apart and inspected for insects.
Andrea Miniature Rose would make an excellent addition to our Crafter’s Herb Garden Six Pack.