FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Who Are You?
We’re Jason and Lisa, the team behind Fraser Valley Rose Farm. From our small farm on Nicomen Island, we grow exceptional roses and perennials, with a focus on uncommon and historic varieties. Jason also runs a YouTube channel with gardening tips and regularly speaks at local garden clubs to share his passion for roses and gardening.
If you’re looking for mail-order options, check out our sister site, Rose Farm Canada, which ships plants across the country.
What Types of Plants Do You Grow?
We specialize in roses and companion plants, with a focus on varieties suited to our Fraser Valley climate. This includes locally propagated own-root roses, larger US-grown (mainly grafted) roses in spring, and a selection of perennials in 1 and 2 gallon pots. Our perennials include both classic choices and harder-to-find varieties to add diversity to your garden.
How Can I Contact You?
For questions about ordering plants or visiting the farm, the best option is to use the AI assistant (linked on our website) to get quick answers. If the assistant can’t help, you can reach Lisa through the contact form. Please note: Lisa handles general inquiries, but for detailed plant & gardening advice, Jason answers questions directly in the comments of his YouTube videos.
Visiting the Farm
Can I Visit Fraser Valley Rose Farm?
Yes! We’re open seasonally on Fridays and Saturdays, 9 AM to 3 PM, from March through September. Outside these times, we are closed for the season but can accommodate visits by appointment.
At the farm, you’ll find gardens to explore, our rose greenhouse, and perennial beds. Bring a picnic, and don’t miss the charming wedding chapel—a favorite photo spot.
What Can I See and Do at the Farm?
- Browse our selection of roses and perennials, most of which are propagated right here.
- Visit our gardens to see over 300 varieties of roses growing alongside perennials and shrubs.
- Check out the “gift shop” for drinks, snacks, garden tools and accessories.
- Enjoy a scenic drive to Nicomen Island, with views of surrounding mountains and wildlife along the Fraser River and Nicomen Slough.
Where Can I Find Event Details?
Check the Events page on our website for updates about on-farm events, garden tours, or workshops.
Purchasing Plants
How Do I Buy Plants?
Shop in person on the farm o order in advance through our website. Plants are listed online as they become available. Pickup is generally on Saturdays, but if that doesn’t work, you can use the contact form to arrange another day with Lisa.
Can I Reserve Plants Ahead of Time?
We don’t offer pre-orders. All plants are listed for sale only when they’re ready, ensuring you get strong, healthy stock. Be sure to check back regularly during the season for updates!
What Sizes Are Your Plants?
We grow perennials in 1 or 2 gallon pots, own-root roses in 2 gallon pots, and larger US-grown (sometimes grafted) roses in 3 gallon pots.
Our locally propagated own-root roses are particularly resilient, long-lived, and won’t produce unwanted rootstock suckers—an ideal choice for gardeners looking for low-maintenance, reliable plants.
Returns and Refunds
What Is Your Return Policy?
We guarantee that all plants are healthy and true to name at the time of pickup. If you encounter any issues, you have 14 days from the purchase or pickup date to bring the plant back to us for a refund or an exchange if replacement is available.
Plant Care
How Should I Plant My Roses?
Roses thrive in sunny spots with at least six hours of light daily. Ensure the soil drains well, and avoid planting in areas prone to standing water. For spacing, give each rose its mature width plus about 12 inches for air circulation. Avoid adding fertilizer or manure directly into the planting hole—focus on getting the plant established first.
Do You Use Pesticides?
We use minimal spraying to maintain plant health, relying on natural methods like sulfur and insecticidal soap. This keeps our plants safe for the environment and for you.
What About Winter Care for Roses?
To protect your roses during Fraser Valley’s wet winters, make sure they’re planted in well-drained soil. Avoid fertilizing or pruning from September onward to help the plants harden off. For potted roses, move them to a sheltered spot (e.g., against a wall, into an unheated garage) during cold snaps.
Rose Gardening Inspiration
How Do I Choose the Right Roses for My Garden?
For information on specific varieties, check out HelpMeFind, a free online resource. Or, visit the farm to see over 300 rose varieties in a garden setting—there’s nothing like seeing the real thing!
Are There Public Rose Gardens Nearby?
Yes! For inspiration, visit some of the excellent public rose gardens in the Lower Mainland, including:
- Centennial Rose Garden, Burnaby Mountain Park
- Stanley Park Rose Garden, Vancouver
- VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver
Product Availability
Why Don’t I See Certain Plants?
Our plants are listed for sale online when they’re ready for pickup. If you don’t see a specific plant, it’s either sold out or not yet ready for sale. Check back regularly, as we update availability throughout the season.
Do You Offer Pre-Orders?
We don’t accept pre-orders. Plants are listed only when they’re ready to ensure you receive healthy, high-quality stock.
Shipping
Can You Ship Plants?
We don’t ship the larger gallon+ sized plants listed at Fraser Valley Rose Farm. However, our sister site, Rose Farm Canada, is designed for mail-order customers across Canada, selling smaller plants in a tall 9cm pot, fitting 6 per box. Visit Rose Farm Canada for shipping options, rates, and availability.
Community and Support
How Can I Support Fraser Valley Rose Farm?
We’d love your help spreading the word! Share our site with gardening friends, leave a review on Google, or attend one of our events. Every bit of support helps keep the farm thriving.
What’s the Difference Between Fraser Valley Rose Farm and Rose Farm Canada?
Fraser Valley Rose Farm serves our local community with on-farm sales and events, while Rose Farm Canada offers nationwide shipping of plants. Both share the same dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.