I received a note from Phil Schorr, editor for the Handbook and for the Official List. He had been approached by a member of his district who was concerned because 'Camden' is listed in the 2007 Handbook as a medium red, but in the 2007 Official List as a "mauve".

Phil says:

"A local exhibitor just pointed out to me that the 2007 Handbook and the 2007 Official List don't agree on the color class for 'Camden', with the former saying 'medium red' and the later 'mauve'. This exhibitor is worried that judges will only look at the Handbook and possibly disqualify a challenge class entry calling for different color classes, if 'Camden' is included along with a medium red variety.

The rules are very clear that the latest official publication rules, and the latest right now is the 2007 Official List. This OL correctly shows 'Camden' as 'mauve'. Thus the worry is judges not taking the time to check with the OL and disqualifying something based on the Handbook. It shouldn't happen, but that doesn't mean it couldn't.

Fortunately, this type of problem will soon be a thing of the past. We now have the Modern Roses database up to date, and all official ARS publications should be using that database when publishing lists. " - Phil Schorr

Susan Clingenpeel
National Horticulture Judges Chair, 2007 - 2009