Can Any Rose Be Trained to Climb?
Not all rose varieties are suitable for climbing, but there are several that are specifically bred or naturally inclined to grow as climbers. These climbing roses can be trained to grow up trellises, arbors, or other support structures, adding vertical interest and visual appeal to your garden.
What Rose Varieties Are Best for Climbing?
Danse Du Feu (Rosa ‘Danse Du Feu’)
- This climbing floribunda rose combines the hardiness of polyantha roses with the free-flowering nature of hybrid tea roses. It grows to 9-13 feet, requires full to partial sun, and is suitable for USDA zones 6-9. It needs regular fertilizing to rebloom sporadically throughout the summer and into autumn.
Fourth of July (Rosa ‘Fourth of July’)
- Introduced in 1999, this rose is known for its candy cane coloring, disease resistance, and spicy scent. It grows to 10-14 feet, prefers full sun, and is suitable for USDA zones 5-10.
May Queen (Rosa ‘May Queen’)
- This vigorous climber can grow up to 15-25 feet and requires full sun. It is suitable for USDA zones 5-9 and can be trained to grow into tree branches.
Kiss Me Kate (Rosa ‘Kornagelio’)
- This pink climbing rose is known for its abundant blooms, disease resistance, and ease of training. It grows to 8-10 feet, prefers full sun to partial shade, and is suitable for USDA zones 5-10.
Lady of Shallot (Rosa ‘AUSnyson’)
- This English rose has a mix of orange, golden yellow, and strawberry pink colors. It grows to 5-8 feet, prefers full sun to partial shade, and is suitable for USDA zones 4-11. It is a good beginner climbing rose due to its manageable height and natural arching canes.
How to Train Roses to Climb?
Climbing roses need to be tied to support structures to encourage horizontal growth, which promotes more flower-bearing side shoots. Use soft ties or twine to secure the stems to wires or trellises, keeping them as close to horizontal as possible.
What Support Structures Are Needed for Climbing Roses?
Trellises and Arbors
- These should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the rose canes and flowers. For taller varieties like ‘May Queen’, a trellis or arbor that is at least 15-25 feet tall may be necessary.
Wires and Cables
- For wall-trained climbing roses, use horizontal wires spaced about 18-24 inches apart. These wires should be at least 3-4 feet off the ground to allow for easy pruning and maintenance.
What Are the Optimal Growing Conditions for Climbing Roses?
Soil Type
- Climbing roses prefer fertile soil that is well-drained. Adding a mulch of well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility and structure.
Sunlight Requirements
- Most climbing roses require full sun to partial shade. Varieties like ‘Fourth of July’ and ‘May Queen’ need full sun, while others like ‘Lady of Shallot’ and ‘Kiss Me Kate’ can tolerate partial shade.
Watering Needs
- Climbing roses need generous watering, especially during summer. However, they do not like waterlogged or very dry soils. Regular watering is crucial, especially if the rose is planted near a wall where the soil may dry out quickly.
