Today, as I have for many years, I entered specimens in a regional horticultural show. The flowers were beautiful and for the very first time, my roses were completely without blemish and were exquisite. I got blue ribbons for all 9. My question is: Why are roses never considered for any of the big "Best in Show" or "Horticultural Excellence" awards? The flowers that are usually picked are plants you "put out there and just go cut on show day". Lots of glads, liatris, magnolia but one gorgeous cactus flowering succulent (that one I "got"). Anyway, I work very hard on my roses all year long and they were absolutely perfect. No one loves roses like we rose people do!!! I just don't understand what's wrong with these people!! (;)