The Wonderful World of Roses

Michael Marriott is technical manager and senior rosarian of David Austin Roses and is one of the world’s most respected rose experts. He is also well-known for his rose garden design and his common sense approach to looking after roses. In his work he travels the globe, often sharing his expertise in lively radio, TV, newspaper and magazine interviews.

He has been an integral part of David Austin Roses for over 30 years and at the firm’s headquarters in Albrighton he is the font of knowledge for all matters relating to roses. His enthusiasm is infectious and his knowledge of roses is encyclopaedic, especially for the species roses, the old roses, the climbers and ramblers, the best modern roses and of course David Austin’s English Roses. Michael has played an important part in the development and popularisation of English Roses and therefore has intimate knowledge of all of the 200 plus English Roses bred and introduced by David Austin Roses. He is particularly enthusiastic about the very varied fragrances to be found in roses having worked side-by-side with famed “rose nose” Robert Calkin.

A keen gardener, he recognised his passion for plants at an early age, he believes that a good gardener starts by choosing appropriate plants and varieties for his or her garden’s growing conditions, then backs it up with sound soil management. His own gardens have always been run on organic principles, selecting only the healthiest varieties of roses and uses other plants to attract beneficial insects.