Alvin Lawson tended his first garden more than 30 years ago, as a child in Hampton Green, Spanish Town. “My first garden did not comprise blooms, but vegetables,” he shared. Over the years, his passion for horticulture grew and with the aid of his green thumb, he was soon tending a lush garden of beautiful hibiscuses, lilies, oleanders and crotons. Then, in 2009, while studying for his doctorate in London, Lawson developed a love affair with roses. “It was at Hyde Park where I saw some of the most amazing rose gardens. Having been able to see other splendid rose gardens around London, I told myself I had to start my own rose garden. Now, I have just opened my own Botanica Plant Nursery of hybrid roses, here in Hampton Green.”

Alvin’s Tips:

* To produce a healthier bush and more roses, prune at the correct time, usually after the blossoms fade.

* Plant roses in healthy soil, where water drains well. They should receive about six hours of good light, including some time in the sun.

* Water deeply at least twice a week.

* Feed the rose bush with compost. I’ve found that it works well for their growth and appearance.

* Check moisture of soil during growth cycles by sticking a finger in the soil. If your finger comes out literally dry, then it is time to add water.