Okay, can we talk about climbing roses for a minute? When I first started, I had no clue what I was doing.
But now my backyard looks like something out of a fairy tale, and I’m spilling all my secrets!
These 8 simple tricks will help you grow the most beautiful climbing roses ever – even if you’re totally new to gardening.
Best Rose Varieties for Vertical Growing
Y’all, picking the right rose variety is absolutely crucial – trust me on this one! After years of trial and error (and quite a few garden mishaps), I’ve found some absolute stunners that are perfect for vertical growing.
Climbing Roses
The Eden rose has become my absolute favorite! This beauty grows 6-10 feet tall and is surprisingly easy to manage, even for beginners.
Dublin Bay is another showstopper in my garden, reaching impressive heights of 8-12 feet. The flowers are enormous, and they just keep coming all season long!
I absolutely adore my Rosa Peace – it might be shorter at 4-7 feet, but this award-winner brings such elegance to any vertical space.
The Fourth of July rose holds a special place in my heart. At 10-14 feet tall, it creates the most incredible scented pathway in my garden.
My latest obsession is the Alchemist rose, which can reach an amazing 6-20 feet. The fragrance is simply divine!
For those really wanting to make a statement, the May Queen is your girl – she’ll climb 15-20 feet with the most gorgeous coral pink blooms you’ve ever seen.
Training Techniques
Basic Training Requirements
Listen up, garden friends – this part is super important! Choose the sunniest spot you can find – I learned this the hard way after initially placing mine in partial shade.
Each plant needs its own support pole at the base. Think of it like training wheels for your roses!
Don’t get scissor-happy that first year – I know it’s tempting, but these beauties need 2-3 years to develop strong canes.
Support Methods
Let me share my favorite support tricks! A sturdy trellis works wonders for rambling and climbing roses.
I’ve had great success with wire mesh support – it’s budget-friendly and so effective.
Pergolas are my absolute favorite for creating that dreamy garden vibe. Mine has become the perfect spot for morning coffee!
Securing Your Roses
Fixing Canes
Here’s a pro tip I wish I’d known earlier: use rubber wire or stretchable vinyl rubber wire instead of regular string. Your roses will thank you!
Make sure to secure those canes properly to your structure. I check mine every few weeks during growing season to make sure everything’s still snug.
Vertical Growing Structures
Arch Growing
Want to create the most romantic garden ever? An arch is the way to go! I planted climbing roses near my garden arch last year, and it’s become the most photographed spot in my yard.
Obelisk Training
Obelisks are perfect for creating focal points! Train those main stems straight up to the top, then let the other stems wrap around naturally.
Grid or Fence Method
This is my go-to method for blank walls! Install a wire grid or wooden structure, and watch as your roses transform that boring space into a living wall of color.
Pillar Training
I’m obsessed with the spiral training method around pillars! It creates such a magical effect, especially when you mix different colored varieties.
Container Growing
Growing in Pots
Don’t have a huge garden? No problem! I started my rose journey with containers on my patio.
Just pick your favorite climbing variety and pair it with a container that has an attached trellis. It’s the perfect solution for small spaces or balconies!