Hi Cindi ...
I am not terribly surprised that the Walter Anderson roses were better than Kniffings. I am quite certain Ted's stock was pretty picked over by now.
'Raspberry Kiss' was bred in England with a very different lineage than what Jim has used for the Eyeconic series of roses. Jim is located in Bakersfield with a very, very different climate.
I honestly believe the climate where a breeder is located truly impacts the roses he breeds because the seedlings that don't do well in that climate are usually culled. Also, the roses tested in that climate are not always viable in other climates.
No, I won't be attending the May convention. May is one of the busiest months in my garden. I am usually rushing to get things done before the heat hits ...
I hope you have a good time.
Smiles,
Lyn
