On Training Climbing Roses

True climbers and vines are very well adapted with a host of sophisticated growth methods worthy of study. Tendrils, modified suction roots, patches of tissue (more or less) sensitive to light... The list goes on. Climbing Roses? Think of them as a primitive grappling hook. Vigorous growth clumsily arcs through the air and when the weight of the limb becomes too much it flops downwards. Should by chance it land on something then the thorns may allow it some purchase and to continue scrambling up a surface.

This is why as opposed to a better adapted climber which will coil itself neatly around an object that we'd like for it to adorn a Rose will need training. It is a painstaking task (with a bit of luck involved) but is well worth the additional effort.

The right cane must be selected and the right tie used. Downward or inward facing shoots must be meticulously removed. Ideally a regime of untying and retying should be followed and more appropriate limbs selected as they become available. With a bit of discipline you'll be on your way towards a spectacular, full and floral rose arbour!