Question
I live in the goulburn valley area, therefore have hot dry summers and cold, frosty winters. We have landscaped our front yard, and will be planting approximately 30 standard roses. The roses I have chosen are iceberg white and just joey, I am not sure what woud be suitable to plant between these. I want something small and round, with some colour that will blend nicely, but big enough to be seen over the box hedging around the edge of the garden bed. thanks!

Answer
Hi,Michelle--marigolds work well, and will help repel insects.  Gold ones especially will complement the colors of your roses.  If you need more height, try portulaca--you can always trim it or pull excess out if you need to.  Both are drought resistant. The portulaca will reseed and spread itself, but I forget about what the marigolds will do!

For more information, visit the American Rose Society at www.ars.org.  There are lots of friendly folks on the rose (and other) forums at GardenWeb.com.  If I can be of more help, you can always reach me here!
Margarett in Memphis