I ordered the Carolyn Knight bare root rose believing in David Austin’s long-standing promise of Grade #1 quality, which clearly states that English shrub roses should have a minimum of three strong, well-ripened canes. What I received was one single strong cane and possibly one very weak secondary cane – completely below what is advertised.

What’s more disappointing is that the bare root rose arrived without any label, and the size and structure are much smaller and weaker than what’s shown on their website or expected from a premium supplier.

Their customer service replied that varieties with an “open or arching habit” may be sent with only two canes “on occasion” – but this is not reflected anywhere in their public product information. This type of inconsistent explanation sounds more like an excuse to cover poor grading or careless dispatch. If this is truly the case for ‘Carolyn Knight’, then they should update the website photos and product descriptions immediately to show realistic, accurate expectations of what customers will receive — not a healthy, full three-cane bare root as pictured.

I’ve spent years building a front garden focused entirely on David Austin roses, and have recommended them many times over other brands. Sadly, this experience raises serious doubts about their current quality control and honesty in customer communication.

David Austin is a respected name — but one misleading order like this can damage the trust of loyal customers forever.