I recently was on a trip to visit some of the rose farm growers on the outskirts of Quito, Ecuador. During these visits, I was allowed to explore and understand the process behind the production of the new red standard rose variety, Rose Born Free, from the renowned breeder De Ruiter. Thereby, collaborating with some of the influential farms that have incorporated the variety into their supply chain. Join me in this adventure in the middle of the world, where this beautiful and top-quality rose is grown.
My Time Among Ecuador’s Roses - A Closer Look at Rose Born Free
Although this rose is not a variety I typically use in my day-to-day designs, this experience did provide me with the unannounced opportunity to understand it from its core. I was also able to experiment with its versatility and contribute with my own ideals and ideas in an effort to enhance its use in different markets. Such experiences always remind me of how important it is to stay connected with the constant genetic developments and market dynamics; thereby building a deeper and more detailed relationship with our suppliers and their clients.
Day 1 - From Post-Harvest to Christmas
The journey started on Monday with a visit to Producnorte, where I had the chance to observe the impeccable work of the post-harvest team. Watching how they classified and prepared Rose Born Free was inspiring, highlighting the dedication and attention to detail. I selected the best stems to create a lovely bouquet and some single-stem momentum. This allowed me to have an opportunity to enhance their potential in both individual designs and more elaborate and sophisticated arrangements.
In the afternoon, we hopped over to Josarflor, where we brought creativity into the already noticeable holiday spirit. Together with the team, in that moment which was close to the past Christmas holidays, we designed some festive compositions that highlighted the texture and brilliance of Born Free, giving it a special touch for the seasonal concept of the moment.
Day 2 - Discovering the Movement and Opening of Rose Born Free
On Tuesday, we began the day at EQR, where I had the chance to create a bouquet I named 'Timeless Red Fruits'. The variety was the central focus of the design, combining shades derived from its color that emphasized its shine and texture. The result was a suave arrangement, ideal for those seeking intrepid elegant pieces.
Thereafter we stopped by at La Rosaleda, where we were warmly welcomed into a prepared-themed area created especially for our arrival. There, we designed a dynamic setting that allowed us to appreciate the different stages of Rose Born Free’s bloom. Although its size is moderate, its texture and durability truly stand out. We had loads of fun creating a luxury hat box and a display with stems of alternate heights, showing new ways to integrate creations with this variety.
Day 3 - Exploring Everything About This Red Rose
Our visit to Star Roses offered a chance to dive deeper into the creative uses of the variety. While the team discussed technical and marketing strategies, I focused on designing a bouquet that highlighted Born Free’s movement and flexibility. Its stems, far from being rigid, allow a fluidity that added a unique character to the overall design.
We concluded our visits at Nevado Roses, where we were graciously welcomed with a personal touch at the entrance. Using a special selection of textural flowers, I created a bouquet focused for the upcoming Mother’s Day. This design highlighted Born Free’s vibrant color and texture, paired with complementary flowers, to create a piece that felt both fresh and sophisticated. I also showcased a monofloral display using reflex techniques to emphasize how this variety can be integrated creatively for different occasions.
For me, each visit was a clear reflection of the passion and dedication behind this variety. What I found most enriching was the opportunity to converse with the teams, understand their perspectives, and explore ways to highlight Rose Born Free in their sales and marketing campaigns. These grand experiences reinforce the importance of merging the creative vision of floral design with the exceptional work of those cultivating the roses. Ecuador, once again, fills me with great inspiration. I'm always eternally grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with these great farms which add that invaluable touch to my art. These organizations and their teams are also tirelessly working to keep growing and contributing innovative varieties to the floral market with new high-quality offerings.
Thank you, Ecuador for these amazing days! If you want to know more about this red rose, you can also read the article 'The Red Rose Born Free Is a Thornless Beauty That Is Revolutionizing Cut Roses in the USA'.
