Genetics is the science of how living things pass traits to their children. Roses, like people, get their looks, scent, and strength from their parents. These traits come from tiny parts inside the plant called genes. Genes tell each part of the rose how to grow.
Genes are found in a rose’s DNA, which is like a recipe book for the whole plant. Roses have thousands of genes that control things like flower color, leaf shape, scent, and how well they fight off diseases. Some genes are stronger than others. These stronger ones are called dominant genes.
When rose breeders want to grow a new rose, they use two parent plants. They take pollen from one rose (called the father) and put it on the flower of another (called the mother). The mother plant then grows rose hips, which contain seeds. These seeds grow into brand-new baby roses.
Each seedling is different. Some babies might look like the mother, others like the father, and a few may surprise everyone with something new! This is because genes mix in different ways. Dominant genes usually show up first, but recessive genes can appear too, especially if both parents carry them.
A good parent rose is strong, healthy, and has something special to offer. Breeders look for plants that don’t get sick easily, bloom often, and grow well in many places. They also want parents with traits like good color, strong scent, or special shapes. Sometimes, one parent gives color while the other gives disease resistance.
Breeding roses takes time and patience, but it’s also full of discovery. Each cross is like a mystery that slowly unfolds, and breeders never know what treasures might bloom.
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