2019 ASHS Annual Conference

American Rose Trials for Sustainability^® (A.R.T.S.^®) is a US rose trialing program initiated in 2012 after the disbanding of the All-America Rose Selection (AARS) program. A.R.T.S.^® trials newer roses in the marketplace using scientific methodology (blocking, randomization, control cultivars, etc.) under low input conditions with the goal of identifying and promoting regionally adapted rose cultivars. Trial sites are located in an increasing number of continental US Köppen climatic regions (8 of the 9 regions are represented in 2019) with collaborators hosting sites at botanical gardens, city parks, and universities. Roses that score higher than the mean of the control cultivars in each region earn a regional Local Artist award, and roses earning four or more Local Artist awards are recognized as Master Roses. Roses are scored monthly during the growing season and are rated for several traits related to floral attributes (42.5% of score), foliar health and quality (45%), and growth habit (12.5%). A.R.T.S.^® is led by a group of volunteer rose experts representing university scientists, public gardens, nurseries, and rose societies. The program is in its third season of announcing winning roses (2018-2020) with a total of 29 roses earning Local Artist awards (12 of these earned the Master Rose award). A.R.T.S.^® has successfully transitioned to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and ongoing program goals include: having two trial sites in all nine continental US regions, expanding marketing efforts for increased program recognition, and increasing program revenue to support current and new expenses.