Climbing Roses: Growing Tips for Success

SITE. Most roses bloom best with 6+ hours of full sun daily. Prefer loose, well-drained soil.

CARE. Water deeply and regularly for first two years. Year 1: feed lightly with balanced liquid plant food (12-12-12) in late May and mid-July (advice from John Clements, Heirloom Old Garden Roses). Year 2: ½ cup complete granular fertilizer around base in late February.

TRAINING. Rose canes don't climb like vines—train them. Tie canes to supports with sturdy twine, heavy-gauge plastic ties, or plastic-coated wire.

PRUNING. Takes several years to develop strong climbing canes. Prune only to remove dead stems, weak growth, faded flowers for first 2–3 years. Prune dormant season (Nov–Feb) in mild-winter areas; early spring (Apr) in cold-winter areas.