Climbing Roses

Climbers come in three sizes:

RAMBLERS (R)

Ramblers are capable of quick strong growth, covering a considerable area in a relatively short period of time. Many ramblers are only flush flowering in Spring and early Summer, with limited flowering in the Autumn; the cooler climate, the more Autumn flower. A most attractive display may be obtained by planting a rambler at the centre of a large circular bed, with shoots set out in a circular fashion by pegging down the canes to the soil. Growth between 4 to 6 metres or above.

CLIMBERS (C)

Climbers are ideally suited to planting against a wall or fence as well as over large arches. Many are climbing sports of well known hybrid or floribuna varieties. They will benefit from tying down canes to encourage lateral growth, resulting in more flower production. Once established, most climbers will flower prolifically throughout the seasons Spring to Autumn. Growth between 2 to 4 metres on average.

PILLARS (P)

Pillar type climbers are less rampant varieties suited to small arches, veranda posts or trailing along chain fences. They will have manageable vigour and will produce a good display of flowers over the entire plant. Growth is usually up to 2.5 metres high.

Climbers can be used in a multitude of situations, limited only by your imagination. For best results espalier the long canes into a horizontal position to promote lateral growth. Do not prune for the first two seasons and then only to remove dead wood and unproductive growth. Climbers flower best from two year old canes.

It is important to train the long canes in a horizontal position to promote bloom production. Allow time for the plants to establish themselves - flowers generally come off two year old wood. Do not prune until the third or fourth season and try to leave the long canes.

Please note: Some climbing roses below may not be catagorised to a Rambler, Climber or Pillar type growth. These varieties are shrub roses that can be trained as climbers and will generally have the growth habit of a Pillar climber.

Plant approximately 2 to 5m apart depending on the growth habit.