A Climbing Rose is really just a shrub rose that decided to get upwardly mobile - and aren';t we glad they did. Many of today's favourite roses, both Floribunda and Hybrid Tea have a climbing version. Even if you don't have a large garden but still have a desire to grow roses then think about decorating a wall, fence or trellis with a climbing rose. Climbing roses add a whole new heady dimension to the garden and allow us to enjoy our favourite blooms at nose or eye level.
Climbing roses differ from Rambling roses in that they have more upright, thicker and stiffer stems or canes, with larger flowers which are produced throughout the season. Climbing roses are usually pruned in winter or early spring, along with shrub roses, whereas a "Rambler" is usually pruned immediately after flowering in summer.
It is important to establish a good framework for your Climbing rose in the first 2-3 years of growth. During this period you will have to do very little pruning except for any wayward shoots that apear outside your desired framework. Secure and train the upward canes in a fan shaped horizontal pattern. Lateral or side shoots will apear from these main canes and this is where your flowers will come from. These can be pruned back to about 1/3 of their growth in winter once your rose is established.
So step outside and look around. Is there a bare wall or a naked fence that would look so much better being dressed by a beautiful rose? Is there an area where a rose covered trellis would add some needed structure with a definite wow factor? With Climbing Roses no need to stay at ground level - rise above and let your imagination soar!
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