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THE GARDEN’S GODDESSES
Things to think aboutSo you are interested in climbing roses! Where to next? Consider the space you have and where the climbing rose should go. Is there an unsightly structure to cover or a bare wall. Or is there the wish to cover an arch, or embroider a hedge? Climbing roses also make a magnificent display spilling out of trees, but they must be planted far enough back from competing tree roots and be given a rope support for the first few years. Visit rosariumsLike us, roses love sunshine, but there a few that will tolerate North wall shade. The best way to decide what climbing rose you want is to visit botanical gardens with rose collections. The world’s most famous rosarium Sangerhausen, Germany grows over 800 sorts of climbing roses. There you can see real colour in the flesh (not all photos are colour-true!) and cultivate a personal choice and experience their growing habits. Soil factorsTesting the soil pH will help the success of growing climbers. They like a slightly acid soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. (pH is a scale that show acidity versus alkalinity). They have a lot of growing to do and need to be well fed. Adding well rotted compost or manure to the planting whole, but cover with a little normal soil to put a barrier between sensitive roots and the compost. Don’t forget to plant a companion clematis! Training roses For flowering spectacles, the canes of climbing roses should be encouraged towards the horizontal. A single cane growing skywards, will grow one single rose. Bent or twisted down, the ensuing restricted sap flow urges climbing roses to produce buds and blooms along the entire can length! Don’t forget to water And Water well. Rose will sulk if they get too thirsty. Dryness is an important reason while rose don’t perform. External links:
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