On May 15, 2024, at the Portsmouth Public Library-Western Branch, Master Garden Volunteers Dr. Hajirah Abdus-Salaam and Mrs. Sandra Warren presented a Library Talk entitled “Tender Loving Care for Roses – TLC.”  They shared that the ”Rose” is considered the most beautiful flower in the world, which is why it’s called the “Queen of the Garden.”It’s one of the most popular flowers worldwide, and it comes in many different types, sizes, and colors. The presenters shared information on types of rose bushes, choosing a location, size, fertilization, and pruning for the beautiful rose bush.  They also shared their symbolic meanings.  The red rose – love and romance, the white rose, innocence and purity, the pink rose, grace and gratitude, the orange rose, enthusiasm and passion and the yellow rose represents friendship and loyalty. The information was well received, and below is a picture of the six (6) recipients that received a miniature rose bush and a colorful pot.  These were gifts from the presenters.  
On the far left is Mrs. Sandra Warren and on the far right is Dr. Hajirah Abdus-Salaam. The Rose Bush winners were the first three people and the last three people that arrived.  They were chosen for their eagerness, tenacity, and determination to come and hear the lecture on Roses.  “Everyone Please Take Time to Smell the Roses” 
Submitted by: Dr. Hajirah Abdus-Salaam