Fresh Cuttings-Stop and Smell the Roses
- Diana Pierce
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
Enjoy this quick, inspiring read—perfect for sparking your next garden adventure or outdoor outing!
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It’s peak rose season in Minnesota, and there’s no better place to experience it than the Lyndale Park Rose Garden in Minneapolis. Designed by Theodore Wirth and established in 1907–1908, this garden is the second-oldest public rose garden in the United States.
What started as 62 plots of hybrid teas and grandifloras has blossomed into over 3,000 roses across more than 100 varieties.
While visiting, I met Suzy L.—a cyclist who truly embraced the spirit of this newsletter. She stopped to smell the roses (with her son in tow!) and even let me capture the moment on camera.
Also gracing the garden were the Larkers in the Park, who gather every Thursday (May–August) for Tai Chi and Qi Gong led by Howard Root.
Their graceful, fan-snapping moves were a delight to watch.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Ancient Elegance: The Romans perfumed their fountains with rosewater, and legend has it that Cleopatra filled an entire room with rose petals to captivate Marc Antony.
Timeless Blooms: Fossilized rose leaves dating back 35 million years have been discovered in Colorado. Roses have also played starring roles in early Asian art and Egyptian rituals.
Precious Essence: The most luxurious rose essence is Bulgarian Rose Otto, derived from Rosa damascena. Producing just one ounce requires 10,000 pounds of petals—and comes with a price tag of $500–$700 per ounce.
BEST ROSE GARDEN IN AMERICA?
The title of “Best Rose Garden in America” often goes to the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, home to more than 4,000 roses across 11 acres. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers—who contribute over 150 hours each week—this garden remains a breathtaking spectacle.
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MUST READS FOR YOUR JULY GARDENS
Garden Chores in July (from Northern Gardener) – Weeding, watering, and watching.
What to Plant Mid-July (U of M Extension Guide)?Leafy greens and cover crops still have a place!
Reminder- When to Buy Tulip Bulbs in Minnesota
While roses are in the spotlight, summer is the perfect time to shop for tulip bulbs. Secure your favorites now for the best selection; your bulbs will ship just in time for fall planting.
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PHOTO OF THE WEEK
This week’s featured flower isn’t a rose, but a camellia—Chongqing’s official bloom—and it’s truly breathtaking.
Last Tuesday, history was made in Chongqing, China, as 11,787 drones illuminated the night sky, forming a colossal flower.
The spectacular display aimed to set a Guinness World Record for the largest aerial image created by the most drones ever.
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ROSE QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"Double Delight" from Lyndale Park, Photo: Diana Pierce
"A rose does not answer its enemies with words, but with beauty."
— Matshona Dhliwayo
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A QUICK CORRECTION
I previously mentioned Noerenberg Gardens as a potential picnic spot. Please note that food, beverages, pets, swimming, and boats are not allowed. Thank you for your understanding!
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BOOKING NOW FOR 2026
I’m now booking garden club and photo club appearances for 2026!
If your group would like to hear my talk, “How I Got the Shot (and How You Can, Too!),” please reach out.
Also, if you have events, flower shows, or other stories I need to know about, please send them to me. I’d love to include them.
Wishing you great blooms this summer.
Diana Pierce
Diana Pierce Photography
Follow @DianaPiercePhotography for more floral stories each month!
About the Author: Diana Pierce is a floral photographer, writer, and Art in Bloom participant who shares her passion for flowers and creativity through her newsletter, Bloom With Me.
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