Complete Guide to the Piaget Rose (Rosa 'MEIvildo')

The Yves Piaget rose, sometimes called Queen Adelaide rose, is a stunning hybrid tea rose from the prestigious ROMANTICA® collection. Named after the famous Swiss watchmaker Yves Piaget, this award-winning variety was introduced by Meilland International in 1983 and won first prize at the Geneva rose competition.

Key Characteristics

Appearance

• Flower Type: Peony-style, heavily ruffled blooms

• Color: Deep raspberry-pink to magenta

• Size: Blooms can reach up to 5 inches across

• Petals: Approximately 80 petals per flower, creating full, voluminous blooms

• Growth Habit: Compact, upright shrub

Fragrance

The Yves Piaget rose is renowned for having one of the most intoxicating fragrances among modern roses. The scent combines:

• Classic old-rose fragrance

• Hints of citrus

• Strong, luxurious aroma that fills garden spaces

Growing Conditions

Light Requirements

• Ideal: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight daily)

• Tolerance: Partial shade acceptable, though full sun intensifies color richness

• Note: More sunlight produces deeper, richer blooms

Soil Preferences

• Well-draining soil

• Rich, organic matter preferred

• Regular garden soil with good drainage

Location Considerations

• Choose a sheltered spot protected from strong winds and drafts

• Avoid planting near large shrubs or tall trees that compete for nutrients

• Allow adequate air circulation around the plant

Planting Guide

When to Plant

• Spring after last frost date

• Fall planting acceptable in mild climates

Planting Steps

1. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and as deep

2. Amend soil with compost or well-rotted manure

3. Plant at the same depth as it was in the container

4. Water thoroughly after planting

5. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base

Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Water regularly until the plant establishes (first growing season)

• Deep, infrequent watering is better than frequent shallow watering

• Water at soil level to avoid wetting foliage

• Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging

Fertilizing

• Feed with rose-specific fertilizer in early spring

• Apply monthly during growing season

• Supplement with compost or aged manure annually

Pruning

• When: Late winter or early spring, after last hard frost

• Method: Remove dead, diseased, or weak wood first

• Cut back remaining canes by one-third to one-half

• Make cuts just above outward-facing buds

• Summer: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage repeat flowering

Mulching

• Apply organic mulch (like wood chips or compost) around the base

• Keep mulch 2-3 inches away from the stem

• Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds

• Replenish mulch as needed throughout the season

Pest and Disease Management

Common Issues

• Aphids: Monitor regularly, use insecticidal soap if needed

• Black Spot: Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering

• Powdery Mildew: Plant in sunny locations with good airflow

• Thrips: Regular inspection and appropriate treatments

Prevention

• Choose disease-resistant varieties when possible

• Provide proper spacing for air circulation

• Clean up fallen leaves and debris

• Water at soil level rather than on foliage

Uses in the Garden

Garden Applications

• Specimen plant in rose gardens

• Mixed perennial borders

• Cottage garden settings

• Foundation plantings

Cut Flowers

• Excellent for floral arrangements

• Long vase life

• Popular with floral designers

• Strong fragrance makes them ideal for indoor bouquets

Companion Planting

Good Companions

• Lavender (complements fragrance and color)

• Catmint (provides contrast and attracts beneficial insects)

• Clematis (for vertical interest)

• Peonies (similar bloom style and timing)

• Hostas (for contrasting foliage texture)

Plants to Avoid

• Large shrubs that compete for nutrients

• Plants that require frequent overhead watering

• Aggressive spreaders that might crowd the rose

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring

• Remove winter protection

• Prune after last frost

• Apply compost and fertilizer

• Begin regular watering schedule

• Apply fresh mulch

Summer

• Maintain consistent watering

• Deadhead spent blooms

• Monitor for pests and diseases

• Continue monthly fertilizing

Fall

• Reduce watering frequency

• Stop fertilizing 6-8 weeks before first frost

• Continue deadheading until 6 weeks before frost

• Clean up fallen leaves

Winter

• Apply winter protection in harsh climates

• Avoid pruning until spring

• Plan for next year's garden additions

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Poor Flowering

• Cause: Insufficient sunlight, over-fertilizing with nitrogen

• Solution: Ensure 6+ hours of sun, use balanced fertilizer

Weak Growth

• Cause: Poor soil drainage, insufficient nutrients

• Solution: Improve drainage, add organic matter, fertilize appropriately

Disease Issues

• Cause: Poor air circulation, overhead watering

• Solution: Improve spacing, water at soil level, ensure morning sun dries foliage

Awards and Recognition

The Yves Piaget rose has received numerous accolades, including first prize at the Geneva rose competition, recognizing its exceptional beauty, fragrance, and garden performance.

Final Tips for Success

• Be patient during the first year as the plant establishes

• Regular feeding and watering will reward you with abundant blooms

• The intense fragrance is best appreciated on warm, still evenings

• Consider planting near walkways or seating areas to enjoy the scent

• This rose performs well in both formal and informal garden settings

With proper care, the Yves Piaget rose will provide years of spectacular blooms and unforgettable fragrance, making it a treasured addition to any garden.