I admit I have an addiction but its a healthy one I promise and it’s not one I have to give up for Lent!  Wherever I am, I am always on a rose hunt.  Are there any?  If so, where are they growing and how are they being grown?  I have seen some incredible specimens and am always amazed at their resilience.  These were a case in point:

Rugosas just coming into growth despite sub zero temperatures and the snow having melted around them, being grown in an exposed site but tightly tied to protect them from the elements and looking remarkably healthy despite the climate.  You have to hand it to the species – they have a will to survive which is hugely admirable.