Gartenspaß

Where to plant. Sunny bedding groups of 3–5 bushes, borders in warm colours, containers on a terrace; looks lovely paired with blue delphinium — a classic contrasting combination; suitable for the front rows of beds because it flowers generously on the lower tiers.

Climate. To −26 °C — all of Ukraine with moderate winter protection in northern regions; southern Ukraine — no cover needed.

Care. A classic floribunda — prune in spring by ⅓; profuse flowering is encouraged by removing spent flower trusses; standard seasonal disease prevention.

Name. 'Gartenspaß' (pronounced 'Gartenspass') — German for 'garden joy, garden delight'. This is the original registered name of the variety, under which it is known in the post-Soviet region. It conveys the light, cheerful character of a bright variety. In English-speaking countries the variety is sold as Garden Delight, and in the USA also as Smiles.

Breeding. Bred by Tim Hermann Kordes, W. Kordes' Söhne, Sparrieshoop, Germany, 2001. Code KORgohowa. Tim-Hermann Kordes is the fourth generation of the famous Kordes dynasty (Wilhelm I – Wilhelm II – Reimer (who bred Friesia) – Tim-Hermann). Parentage not published — the house's standard practice.

Significance. This variety is an example of the modern Kordes-philosophy of the 'healthy garden rose': notable decorative value, a warm attractive colour, good resistance, moderate fragrance. It makes no claim to awards (it has no ADR) and has not made it into a Hall of Fame — it is a 'workhorse' for sunny borders. It often pairs well with 'Brothers Grimm' (also Kordes, also a warm orange) in bright bedding compositions.