David Austin Rose 'Gabriel Oak'

A magnificent variety, bearing medium sized, many petalled rosette blooms. They are a striking shade of deep pink, the outer petals of each bloom paling slightly over time. The beauty of the blooms is enhanced by a wonderful, strong fruity fragrance. A vigorous rose; it forms a very shapely, broad, rounded shrub with mulberry purple stems and dark green foliage, giving the overall impression of richness and abundance. Named after the beloved character in Thomas Hardy’s novel, Far from the Madding Crowd.

David Austin Roses were not developed for Zone 3. BUT it is possible to have success here in Manitoba by following a few key tips.

Choose a location that is not in line with strong north winds

Plant the crown (this is where the roots end and the woody shrub begins) of your rose 6”-12” below the surface of the soil. As your shrub will be in full leaf at time of purchase you can clean off leaves that will get buried if you like.

In the fall you will need to cover with a deep layer of mulch. Wood mulch, straw, leaves or a combination of all. Use a burlap tarp (Not Plastic) to cover and hold down with rocks or stakes. This will ensure the mulch is not blown away. A full wheelbarrow or more per rose is not out of the question. Throughout the winter direct your snow clearing efforts to cover your roses as well. The more insulation the better.

Don’t remove the tarp and mulch until night temperatures are consistently hovering about zero to +3 with no threat of deep freeze, as we sometimes see in April.

We hope you enjoy growing your David Austin Rose.