I recently attended a rose seminar that was sponsored by a local rose grower. I was curious as to what the speaker’s recommendation was for a really great climbing rose. I was not surprised when he answered “4th of July”. In 1999, 4th of July was the first climbing rose to win the AARS (All American Rose Selections) award in 23 years. The blossoms are everything you would expect from a rose named 4th of July, clusters of large four inch flowers in vibrant red with white stripes, on 10-14 foot arching canes. Its scent is exceptional and it has the added bonus of being a repeat bloomer. It is hardy in zones 5-9.

Why grow climbers? A full-grown climber, full of blooms, is a wonderful sight. Its height lifts your eyes from the earth (which might have weeds) to the more beautiful backdrop of the sky. Climbers change your garden from a two-dimensional flatland to the full use of the space you have, all three dimensions.

Climbing roses are ideal as well for gardeners who wish to grow more than roses in their yards. Blue or purple clematis vines are beautiful twining through a climbing rose and add a color not found in roses. You might think blue morning glories would do the same thing cheaper and easier, but morning glories take over the rose bush and re-seed themselves relentlessly.

Another reason to add a climber to your garden is that they can be less affected by pests and diseases compared to other roses. This may be partly because the leaves are high enough to prevent blackspot spores from being splashed on them from the ground. Growing above the earth also gives them more air and light, which is great for their health.

The choices for supporting a climbing rose are limited only by your imagination. Look at your yard before you start. If you have a rock pile, a dead tree, or a picket fence, you already have a support in place.

Do not prune a climber at all for its first 2 or 3 years except to remove dead wood. It takes time to develop the long canes and large root system it needs to support them. Many climbers become bare around their bases after a few years. Lower growing perennials can be grown at the base. Daylilies work well by providing a contrast of leaf type and bloom time, without being invasive.