ADR is an abbreviation for "Allgemeine Deutsche Rosenneuheitenprüfung" (General German Rose Novelty Test). The aim of the ADR is to test and evaluate selected rose novelties for various aspects such as flowering behavior and, in particular, resistance. The ADR was founded in the 1950s, mainly at the instigation of Wilhelm Kordes and other rose breeders, in order to be able to classify the large number of new varieties. The ADR is a working group of rose breeders and independent testing gardens and is embedded in the Association of German Nurseries (BdB).
In the test gardens, of which there are 11 at different locations throughout Germany, the new rose varieties are planted and tested over several years (usually 3-4 years) without the use of sprays for their ornamental value and robustness.
The rose is to be tested there on the basis of its natural characteristics. Only a few varieties receive the coveted ADR seal (ADR Rose), as it is a predicate for a very healthy, as well as growth and flowering variety and increases the value and awareness of a new breed immensely.
A total of over 2000 varieties have now been tested, with only 187 rose novelties (as of October 24, 2019) making it onto the ADR variety list. In addition, the ADR seal is also withdrawn if, contrary to expectations, a variety cannot meet the strict quality criteria after years. You can buy ADR roses without hesitation if you prefer very robust and easy-to-grow varieties.
