Question
I live in Portland,OR which, depending on who you ask is anywhere from zone 6-8.
I've never planted any roses but love their beauty and fragrance so much I'm considering giving it a try. Are certain roses more fragrant then others? Also, any that are easier to care for; maybe I should say, any that are less prone to disease/use less fertilizing, etc.
Thanks for your input.
Anne

Answer
The old garden roses are usally have the strongest fragrance. There are some newer hybrid teas that have a strong scent but they do take more care than the older roses. I like to tell people to start with an older roses which doesn't require any attention and then you will get confidence in growing roses. Then move up to the modern shrubs and finally the hybrid teas. Here is a list of roses which have good disease resistance plus a few of the best of the older garden ones.
Start with the following:-
Paul Ricault...double deep rose very fragrant, just one bloom period.
Leda...double white edged carmine Damask
The above are at The Uncommon Rose
The Uncommon Rose is in Oregon but does mail order. Their plants will be very small to start with but will become large ones. Just make sure you water them well the first year. Not making them soggy just keep them damp.
http://www.uncommonrose.com/
Royal William...a really good easy to grow red Hybrid Tea
Elina...another very easy to grow soft yellow Hybrid Tea
Bonica is a bullet proff modern Shrub that is easy to grow.
The above are at Edmunds Roses
Edmunds Roses is also in Oregon and they have grafted roses which means they are large and will grow quickly. Perhaps you could start with them. I get good reports from both of these nurseries. These roses all have excellent disease resistance, good vigour and will do well for you.
Hope this helps. Lynnette