American Rose Society
Spring 2002 National Convention

Hosted by the Santa Clara County Rose Society, affiliated with the
Northern California - Nevada - Hawaii District of the
American Rose Society

Hopper Garden

The Garden of Martin and Beverly Rose Hopper

Belonging to one of Northern California's top exhibitors, the Hopper garden has produced a bounty of award winning roses. But unlike the gardens of many exhibitors where roses are grown in rows, roses in the Hopper garden are fully integrated into the landscape design.

Sweeping curves of roses and companion plants soften the look and make for a peaceful oasis amid the hustle bustle of Silicon Valley. The garden is a reflection of Beverly's s love of prize winning roses, and though she grows all types, her special passion is new exhibition varieties. As District Chair of Horticultural Judges, she takes seriously the adage "you've got to grow them to know them."

Although in their city garden the number of roses kept at one time is usually just less than 300 bushes, Beverly estimates over the years she has grown thousands of different varieties, noting in jest her garden gate is more of a "revolving door."

Nine years ago the Hopper's undertook a major remodeling of their home, and at completion of construction began a series of extensive re-landscaping projects. Approximately 80% of the roses were transplanted, including mature rose trees that lined the front walk (they had grown so large the mailman confessed he had to walk up to the front door sideways) and two 12 foot Jeanne La Joie which Beverly removed from the old arbor with a sledgehammer! Martin built a new 30 foot redwood arbor, now covered with the transplanted Jeanne La Joie along with Sally Holmes and Climbing Iceberg, which serves as a magnificent backdrop to the garden. The circular Arizona flagstone and brick patio connected to the deck by huge flagstone stepping s tones is a relaxing spot to "stop and smell the roses." Other special features of the Hopper garden include a collection of tree roses that range from a custom budded 8 foot cascade of Rosarium Utersen to topiary miniature tree roses of Cinderella.

Besides serving as Northern California-Nevada-Hawaii District Chair of Judges, Beverly is National Chair of the Editorial Advisory Committee, has been named Outstanding Consulting Rosarian for NCNH, and is Past President of the Santa Clara County Rose Society. She is demand as a speaker in her District, and has made both television and radio appearances. An avid writer, she is the recipient of ARS Award of Merits and the San Jose Mercury News Silver Pen award. Her husband Martin's hobby is gourmet cooking and supporting his wife's rose habit!