During the tour of Pajarosa, Leith noted an orientation issue with some roses. They were growing how?

• A. Upright and straight
• B. Diagonally downwards
• C. Sideways instead of straight up
• D. Twisted around the stem

Answer: (C)

Roses are expected to grow upright, with canes rising toward light and space. When they end up growing sideways, it signals an orientation issue that often comes from how the plants are supported and trained. In a garden like Pajarosa, roses are typically staked or trellised so the canes grow vertically. If they grow sideways, the weight of blooms or lack of proper support can push the canes outward and cause them to trail rather than stand straight. This horizontal growth affects air circulation and pruning efficiency, and it’s a cue to adjust training: provide sturdy stakes or a trellis, gently guide the canes upward, and prune to encourage stronger, upright growth.