when old roses outshine new hybrids in my garden

Every spring, as the frost melts away in our small North American town, I find myself torn between the roses my grandmother once cherished and the flashy new hybrids my daughter insists on planting. This year, the old climbing rose by my porch—planted decades ago—stole the show. Its scent brought back memories of childhood summers, barefoot in the grass, my grandmother’s laughter echoing through the yard. Yet, my daughter rolls her eyes, saying the old varieties are too wild, not Instagram-worthy enough for her friends. I wonder, do we lose something precious when we trade tradition for trend? The new hybrids bloom fast and bright, but they struggle with our unpredictable spring storms, wilting before June. Meanwhile, the old rose weathers every chill, its petals battered but beautiful, just like the women in my family. Neighbors debate: should we stick to what thrives in our climate, or chase the latest catalog craze? Some say our community gardens look outdated; others argue that native plants are our heritage. I’d love to hear—do you side with the old or the new? Is beauty in the memory, or in the moment? #gardeningdebate #familytradition #roses #Gardening