Sharing Our Love for Roses
Regan Duffee | President, New England Rose Society
July 2026
It feels like the gardening season just began, yet somehow we're already well into summer. The weeks have flown by, and what an incredible season it has been so far.
Our annual rose show is always the highlight of the year, and I couldn't be more proud of how this year's event came together. Change can be hard. We weren’t sure how moving the rose show to Elm Bank was going to go, but it ended up a success thanks to the hard work of our volunteers, exhibitors, judges, and the warm hospitality of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. I hope this is only the beginning of a long partnership with Mass Hort.
The rose show is a great way to see the diversity of roses grown throughout New England. Every year I discover varieties I've never seen before, since many are out of commerce, and the list of roses I want always seems to swell.
But my two favorite moments of the day happen first thing in the morning, and at the end of the day. I love the energy in the prep room when the exhibitors are carting in their roses. Despite the friendly competition, what stands out most is the camaraderie. People are sharing supplies, passing around the American Rose Society's Handbook for Selecting Roses to help classify entries correctly, and offering advice to one another.
Photo: The Court from the 2026 NERS Rose Show: Queen, Francis Meilland grown by Lauren Gisel; King, Rock & Roll, grown by Irwin and Cindy Ehrenreich; Princess, Full Sail, grown by Melissa Arsenie. Photo credit: Regan Duffee
My other favorite moment is during the award ceremony at the end of the day. I love recognizing a beginner exhibitor’s first time making the head table. I think everyone remembers when they’ve reached this milestone, and it’s a proud, never forget moment. I’m just so happy for them.
Most people don't start growing roses because they want to exhibit them. To me, it is just another way to celebrate the hard work we have done in our gardens and share roses with our community.
As summer continues, I'm also looking forward to Lobsterfest. While our spring convention is where we gather to learn, Lobsterfest is where we slow down, share meals, and tour gardens. I think it’s where deeper friendships are formed amongst our members. I know the Yankee District Board has some wonderful plans for September, and I'm looking forward to seeing many of you there.
As busy as this season can be, challenge yourself to take a moment in your garden, not to look at all the chores left to be done, but to look for the beauty in your garden. Set down the pruners. Look for the new buds. Look for the pollinators visiting your garden. Listen to the birds.
Thank you for being part of the New England Rose Society and for helping make this such a wonderful community. I look forward to seeing many of you at Lobsterfest and throughout the remainder of the season.