The Dedication of the Ralph S. Moore Rose Garden



The Ralph Moore Rose Garden in Visalia, Ca.

On October 25, 2003, the first phase of the Ralph Moore Rose Garden was planted by friends and Master Gardeners of Tulare County. The garden is located at Memorial Park in Visalia. Mr. Moore has been recognized for his endless efforts in hybridizing roses. He has hybridized over 300 miniture roses for his family, Visalians, friends throughout the world, places, institutions and colleges. Mr. Moore is a native Visalian. Sequoia Nursery was established February 28, 1937 and is on the same property as his home. Mr. Moore still works in his greenhouses-still dreaming for that "perfect" rose. A circular bed, located on the corner of an intersection, has a memorial statue to World War II, Korean and Vietnam veterans. 'Cherry Hi', 'Cinderella' and 'Lavender Jewel' roses were planted to carry the patriotic theme of red, white and blue. In semi-circular beds surrounding the circular bed, 'Sweet Chariot' roses are planted.


Ralph Moore planted the first rose bush in the garden

In the second phase of the graden Mr. Moore's Award of Excellence winners were planted in Spring, 2004. Visalia Parks and Recreation coordinated a fund raising campaign to purchase an arbor, benches, lighting, fencing and a dedication plaque. The Ralph S. Moore Rose Garden was officially dedicated on May 29, 2004. The dedication program reflected what a diverse number of people he has influenced in his career. Master of Ceremonies was Rich Hansen, the Pastor of the church Mr. Moore attends. Speakers included Mary Hill, his longtime banker and friend whom he named a rose for; Tom Link, Commissioner of Visalia Parks & Recreation; Norm Phillips from the University of California Master Garderner's Program; Bob Ludekens from the California nursery industry and ARS Vice President Steve Jones representing the American Rose Society.

The dedication plaque



American Rose Society Vice President Steve Jones with Mr. Moore


Keith Moore, son of Mr. Moore and ARS Vice President Steve Jones







Muriel & Bill Humenick



The Ralph S. Moore Rose Garden


The Ralph S. Moore Rose Garden is a celebration of Mr. Moore's simple philosophy in life-striving for the "perfect rose". It is this dedication that has kept him hybridizing for almost 70 years. Visalia has honored a great rosarian whose contributions to the rose industry will continue for future generations of Visalians and the world to enjoy!


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Last Updated January 14, 2007
1997 Linda Burg