June is an exciting month for us here at River Road Nursery, the new seasons Matthews Roses have arrived and they are going to be stunning in flower!

River Road Nursery is the exclusive Franklin stockist of the renowned, high-quality Matthews Roses. Quantities are limited and demand is high, so visit us or get in touch to secure the roses on your wish list.

Browse our selection of Roses

Pictured above is Rose ‘Iona’ – New release for 2026

Soft pretty in pink blooms of delightful, cupped shape form, repeat flower in clusters above healthy green foliage. This easy care, vigorous plant is well suited for growing in absolutely any garden situation. Lovely for picking!

Why Winter is the Best Time for Planting Roses

Roses are sleeping in winter, it’s their dormant period and absolutely the best time to plant them to prevent transplant shock. Planting while dormant gives them time to settle into their new homes, ready to produce foliage, buds and beautiful flowers come spring and summer.

Choose a sunny spot, to perform at their best, roses need around six hours of sunshine each day. Roses are hungry feeders, meaning they need good nutrition to produce their stunning displays. Mix compost and slow-release fertiliser into the planting hole, water in well, then give them a bucket of water each day for the following week.

Roses have added beauty to gardens and homes for centuries. As symbols of love, compassion, peace, and beauty, they bring colour, fragrance, and inspiration. Whether growing in the garden, arranged indoors as cut flowers, or given as a thoughtful gift, there is a rose for every occasion.

Rose hips are also edible and rich in vitamin C, which may help support winter wellness. They can be used to make tea, jam, or jelly. Just remove the pips and avoid using hips from plants that have been treated with chemicals.