Cross Pollination of Rose Bushes?

Question

I have a red rose bush & a white rose bush & I’m wondering if they have cross pollinated as on the white bush I have one rose that is half white & half red.

I have noticed that there are two more red rose buds on the white bush with a white rose in between them.

Can you please confirm if they have cross pollinated or explain how this has happened.

Answer 1

It is possible that the rosebushes have had a hiccup in their genetics which ties to cross pollination by our friends the bees. I have seen this before, especially when two very hardy and vigorous rosebushes are planted near one another. I have also seen rosebushes create what is called a “Sport” which differs from the original rosebush. When they do this you can get a rosebush that blooms with totally different looking blooms. I believe that your rosebush may have sported. If you like what you are seeing, you could let it go and grow. See how it performs. If it becomes weak and gets sickly, it would be best to prune out the canes that are part of the sport. You can also prune them out if you just do not like the looks of the sport’s blooms. You will likely have to keep an eye on the bush and keep the sported canes pruned out to discourage them. Some can be more vigorous than others. You can also attempt to separate the sport rosebush from the original and plant it in its own special place. You can name her whatever you like. Enjoy!!