North Thames: Rochfords International Rose Trials

Rochfords International Rose Trials trial roses on behalf of rose breeders from across the world. Varieties which are not yet commercially available are submitted to trial by the breeders. RIRT is the only independent trials site in the UK which trials unnamed seedling roses providing a unique opportunity for rose enthusiasts to view and judge roses not yet available. Rochfords aims to support and inform rose breeders and growers, by promoting horticulture and roses to a new generation.

This not-for-profit venture is part of Rochfords CSR commitment, and we aim to include not only experts, but also the wider public and in particular, schools, colleges and horticultural societies.

On the day:

3.30pm: Welcome and refreshments
4.00pm: Overview of the nursery
4.30pm: Talk about the rose trials
5.00pm: Guided walk around the rose gardens
5.45pm: Buffet
6.15pm: BNG talk – ‘The Lovebug’, Noel Brock, Frognal Gardens
7.15pm: Finish

About the rose trials:

Beyond our business pursuits, Rochfords embraces the profound impact of horticulture on both the environment and the community. Taking on responsibilities from the St Albans Rose Gardens, we established Rochfords International Rose Trials - trials for seedling roses, now in its 6th year. This venture not only puts roses from across the globe to the test but also serves as a source of horticultural inspiration and education, reflecting our belief in the power of greenery to cultivate beauty, health and knowledge within our community and more widely within the industry.

About ‘The Lovebug’ presentation:

Noel Brock, Frognal Gardens and Vice-Chair of the North Thames committee will give an insightful presentation – ‘The Lovebug’. This informative presentation will include a slideshow illustrating Frognal Gardens’ theories of wildlife gardening, planting schemes etc., and their methods of finding, catching and showcasing garden wildlife for clients. It will also cover how to use and how to source the basic equipment needed for this.

Joseph Rochford Gardens

In 2024 Accredited Supplier Joseph Rochford Gardens (Rochfords) is celebrating its 50th year as a limited company. They have 40 acres of container production across 2 nurseries, built to produce the best quality plants with minimal environmental disruption. The Rochfords family have been growing plants in the Lea Valley since the 1860’s.

Rochfords Cash & Carry is one of the largest in the UK. Nursery production combined with Europe-wide sourcing of plants, means everything an be found at the Cash and Carry or quickly sourced from approved suppliers.

Rochfords continually demonstrates commitment to environmental responsibility. The Birch Green site has recently been upgraded adding a new tunnel with a ErfGoed floor – a state of the art, water efficient flood / drain system. Last year all young plants were potted into peat-free growing media, with Rochfords striving to increase procurement of peat-free young plants as availability improves.

Rochfords have held OHAS certification since 2004, we are audited annually by an  independent UKAS auditor, ensuring continued industry leading excellence in plant health, pesticide management, traceability. Our commitment to the highest standards is a testament to our dedication to our crops, the environment and our customers.

Frognal Gardens

Frognal Gardens have been relandscaping outdoor spaces in the Hampstead area for over 30 years.

Whilst transforming gardens with classic and modern styles, their signature style is the urban oasis, a haven equally welcoming to people and wildlife.

Their philosophy is that gardens are made up of the whole great circle of life. Plants and animals are woven into a single rich tapestry. Bright butterflies and hover-flies fill the air, and beetles and arachnids work unseen among the flowers controlling pest species.