What female ever has said I don’t like red roses?! Not me for starters! They are one of my favourite flowers and today is their special day.

We all think of red roses as a symbol of love, which they are, as shown by the number of red roses that are sold on Valentine's Day and given to loved ones at different times of the year. But there is more to them than that.

A red rosebush is something every garden should have. Sadly, today, most garden roses don’t have a scent, but if you are lucky enough to have an old fashioned red rose in your garden, hang onto it.

The rose lost its popularity with the spread of Christianity in Europe as it was a symbol of depravity and decadences and that did not come up to the standard of the puritanical roots of religion. But by the 5th/6th century the rose had caught the fancy of artists, poets and writers in Europe and the Middle East.

In the 15th century, there were battles over the throne in England and the rose was used as their symbol. The white rose of York and the red rose of Lancaster. The War of the Roses was won by the supporters of the red rose.

The red rose has a place in most cultures. In many parts of the world, it is a way to express love, romance, beauty and respect. Red roses are one of the most popular flowers for gifts and also in many countries a symbol of social democratic parties. In Spain, France and Portugal, rose is the word for red. Having this day in the modern world is wonderful, the world is full of problems and hate and it's nice to think that an emotion such as love can be expressed with the giving of one of these single flowers

This special day should be celebrated by all.
Even if you don’t have a loved one to give a red rose to, you can participate and celebrate this lovely day.

There are loads of ways to celebrate this day:

Go visit a rose garden and see some of the exotic species that are around.

Spend time in your garden admiring your roses and giving them some attention.

Buy your loved one a single red rose and prepare a romantic dinner for two. It will be very much appreciated.

Read up about how to care for roses.
They do add beauty to a garden and their scent is wonderful!

Read up about The War of the Roses.

Whatever you do, make it something different and enjoy this special day dedicated to a very special plant.

Do you grow roses? Do you buy your loved one roses? Tell us whether you like red roses or not.
They are personally my favourite flower and I have been given them on special occasions, not very often sadly.

Even animals can give their loved ones red roses!

All are welcome.
And please feel free to share all discussions you enjoy.