Yep, I should have just said Eden balls up. Here, that happens after rain or a real foggy morning. We don't get that much rain or fog, so I don't let that stop me from buying a rose. One of my favorite roses is Auguste Renoir, and it is the worst for balling. On the other hand, if I cut it and bring it in as soon as it's a full bud, it will last 2 weeks or more in a vase, where it opens perfectly.
Don't know if it's because of our wind, or predatory insects or birds, but I don't get thrips or aphids. Knock on wood.
Polly, I think my roses are at their prettiest in cold weather. They open slowly and last much longer when it's cool. Their colors are deeper then, too.
