I used to belong to the old garden web too, but haven't been active for many years and finally found the site again. I have a query regarding Charles de Mills :
my rose has been in the ground for about 10 years and I have never had a good display from it. Last spring it didn't flower at all. I never prune it I don't prune other gallicas either though don't seem to be worried about it), although it is not more than a metre high, but treat it like I do my other roses, fertilizer in spring, water in summer. I thought I might move it this winter as it is in an an ever so slightly shaded position. I thought maybe full, unrelenting mid summer sun might goad it into action. Apart from that, does it need any special treatment? Like special soil, particular fertilizer, gallons of water?
I'd be pleased to hear of others' experiences with this lovely rose, before I give up entirely.

to the site, Meg!

Since your query is about a specific rose, I've moved this to the Roses forum (from the Welcome forum) in the hopes that somebody will be able to answer your question for you.

My Charles de Mills did not do well in crummy bagged store bought dirt , the flowers were small. For lack of not being able to provide a sunny spot with rich dirt, I passed him on to someone that had big property where it would flourish. You could try adding horse manure or some rich organic dirt and see if that pleases your rose, the blooms are so pretty it's worth the try.