Volunteer Opportunity
Join the Rose Rangers!
The Rose Rangers Volunteer Friends Group is dedicated to the care and development of one of the most beloved sections of the Arboretum grounds, the Memorial Rose Garden. This special volunteer group provides regular hands-on maintenance throughout the growing season, including weekly care, and performs seasonal maintenance and improvements as needed, in coordination with Arboretum staff.
Time Commitment
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Attend at least two of the three annual Rose Ranger work parties
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Volunteer approximately once per month from June through October, either during scheduled work parties or through self-scheduled visits with hours logged
Who are the Rose Rangers?
Rose Rangers help care for and maintain the Arboretum’s Memorial Rose Garden throughout the growing season. Typical activities include:
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Spring pruning and fertilizing
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Summer cleanup and general maintenance
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Fall cutback and soil care
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Monthly maintenance from June through October, including deadheading, light weeding, and quick cleanup
Volunteers are encouraged to bring hand tools if possible; shared tools are also available.
2026 Rose Rangers Volunteer Calendar
Launch & Training Meeting @ Jewett Interpretive Center – Wed, March 18, 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Overview of the program, history of the rose garden, new online catloging and rose care basics.
Spring Pruning Work Parties – Wed, April 1 & Sat, April 4, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.*
Focus: prune all bushes; short pruning demo and Q&A.
Pre‑Second Bloom Cleanup & Fertilizing – Wed, July 8 & Sat, July 11, 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.*
Focus: deadheading, garden cleanup, fertilizing.
Late Fall Cut‑Back – Sat, Nov 7, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.*
Focus: reduce height, remove diseased material.
Soil Care Day (Weather‑Dependent) – Sat, Nov 21, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.*
Focus: sulfur and composted manure after pruning.
June–October – ongoing weekly deadheading & weeding with rotating and drop‑in volunteers.
Fall TBD – End-of-the-Season Volunteer Appreciation Party @ RockCandy Rose Gardens
* Hours will vary based on weather conditions.
Who Can Join the Rose Rangers?
The Rose Rangers welcome anyone with an interest in roses and garden stewardship—rose lovers, students, Master Gardeners, garden clubs, scout and church groups, and families are all encouraged to participate.
No prior experience is required. All training is provided, making this a rewarding and accessible opportunity for volunteers of all skill levels.
Benefits of Joining the Rose Rangers?
• Learn from experienced rose garden volunteers
• Participate in hands-on rose care demonstrations during work parties
• Help beautify and care for a cherished community garden
• Build leadership skills through ongoing volunteer and leadership opportunities
• Enjoy an annual volunteer appreciation celebration at RockCandy Rose Gardens
How to Join
Click the button below to signup to join the Rose Rangers volunteers, or stop by the
YAA office for signup details.
Questions? Contact the Rose Ranger coordinator Candy Lee at candy@candyjlee.com or call (206) 660-2417.