Climbing roses aren’t true vines like ivy; they don’t have tendrils or adhesive pads to cling on their own. Instead, they produce long, flexible canes that need our help to climb effectively. Providing support and training them properly is key to creating that stunning vertical display and maximizing blooms.
Why Support is Essential
Left unsupported, climbing roses often become large, sprawling shrubs, or their long canes might flop under their own weight. A sturdy support structure not only keeps the rose tidy but also allows you to position canes strategically for better flowering and visual appeal.
Support Structure Ideas
Consider trellises, arbors, pergolas, fences, walls (using wire systems or attached trellises), or obelisks. Whatever you choose, ensure it’s strong enough to hold a mature, potentially rain-soaked rose. Install the support before or at the time of planting.
Training Tip #1: Think Horizontally for More Blooms!
This is the most impactful training technique! Here’s why: climbing roses have main canes (long structural stems) and lateral shoots (shorter side stems where most flowers appear). If main canes grow straight up, growth hormones tend to concentrate flowers at the very top. However, by gently bending and tying the main canes so they run more horizontally (aiming for a 45-degree angle or flatter), you encourage the plant to send up numerous flowering lateral shoots all along that main cane’s length. This creates that coveted “wall of flowers” effect.
Visualize: fanning out canes across a wall, gently spiraling canes around pillars, training canes up and over arches.
How to Attach Canes
- Use Soft Ties: Protect the canes! Use materials that won’t cut into the stem as it grows, like soft garden twine, stretchy plant ties, or strips of fabric. Avoid wire.
- Tie Loosely: Secure the cane, but leave enough slack for it to thicken over time. Check ties periodically.
- Start Early: Begin training main canes while they are young, green, and flexible. Older, woodier canes become stiff and difficult to bend without breaking.