How to Grow Climbing Roses on a Trellis: 5 Easy Steps

Growing climbing roses on a trellis can transform your garden into a stunning display of color and fragrance. Climbing roses are perfect for adding vertical interest to your garden and can create a romantic and picturesque atmosphere.

In this guide, we’ll understand How to Grow Climbing Roses on a Trellis in simple steps & discuss about how to care & train climbing roses, best time to grow climbing roses. Let’s get started!


Tools Required

Before you begin, gather these essential tools:


Garden gloves
Pruning shears
Shovel
Garden trowel
Trellis
Plant ties or garden twine
Compost or well-rotted manure
Watering can or garden hose


climbing roses on trellis


Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Climbing Roses on a Trellis



Choose the Right Climbing Rose


Select a climbing rose variety that suits your garden. Some popular options include ‘New Dawn’, ‘Don Juan’, and ‘Iceberg’. These climbing roses are known for their beautiful blooms and vigorous growth.



Select the Perfect Spot


Climbing roses need plenty of sunlight, ideally 6-8 hours a day. Choose a spot with good air circulation to prevent the diseases. Ensure the soil is well-draining to promote healthy root growth.

roses on trellis



Prepare the Soil


Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or rose-specific fertilizer. Dig a hole that is twice as wide & deep as the root ball of your rose plant. Mix the compost well in the soil to provide essential nutrients.



Plant the Climbing Rose


Place the climbing rose in the hole, ensuring the graft union (where the rose is grafted onto the rootstock) is just below the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil, pressing it gently around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly.



Install the Trellis


Position the trellis behind the rose bush. Secure it firmly in the ground. Trellises for climbing roses come in various designs, so choose one that complements your garden style and provides adequate support.

climbing rose on trellis



Train the Rose to Climb


As the rose grows, gently tie the canes to the trellis using twine or plant ties. Spread the canes out evenly to encourage more blooms. Make sure to not to tie them too tightly to avoid damaging the stems.



Prune Regularly


Pruning is very essential for plant’s healthy growth and abundant blooms . In the first year, focus on training the canes. In subsequent years, prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak stems and shape the plant.

roses on trellises



Water and Feed


Water your climbing rose regularly, especially during dry spells. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.



Mulch and Protect


Mulch around the plant’s base to retain the moisture and suppress the weeds growth. In colder climates, protect the rose bush with a layer of mulch or straw during winter.

trellis for climbing roses


Best Time to Plant Climbing Roses

The best time to plant climbing roses is in early spring or late fall. Planting in early spring allows the roses to establish roots before the growing season starts. Late fall is also good because the roses can settle in before winter dormancy.



Make sure the soil is well-prepared and choose a sunny spot with good air circulation. This timing gives your climbing roses the best chance to thrive and produce beautiful blooms.

Related: How To Grow Roses: 5 Simple Steps


How to Train a Climbing Rose

Training a climbing rose is simple! First, secure the main canes to a trellis or support structure using soft ties. As the plant grows, gently guide the new shoots horizontally or in a fan shape to encourage more blooms.



Regularly prune dead or weak branches to keep the plant healthy. Water and feed your rose consistently to promote strong growth. With a little attention, your climbing rose will thrive and add beauty to your garden!

trellis for roses


How long does it take for Climbing Roses to Grow

Climbing roses typically take about 2 to 3 years to establish and start showing significant growth. During the first year, they focus on building a strong root system. By the second year, you’ll see more noticeable growth and some blooms.



By the third year, they should be well-established and producing more abundant flowers. Regular pruning, feeding, and proper support help them thrive and grow beautifully.

rose trellis


Conclusion

Growing climbing roses on a trellis can be a beautiful experience of adding beauty & charm to your garden. With the right care and attention, you’ll enjoy a stunning display of roses that will make your outdoor space truly special to adore. Follow these steps to ensure your climbing roses thrive and create a breathtaking view in your garden.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about How to Grow Climbing Roses on a Trellis

What is the best time of planting the climbing roses?

The best time to plant climbing roses is in early spring or late fall when the weather is cool.

Can I grow climbing roses in pots?

Yes, climbing roses can be grown in large pots with proper support and regular care.

What type of trellis is best for climbing roses?

A sturdy, vertical trellis with wide spacing works best, as it supports the roses’ heavy blooms and allows them to spread easily.

How do I train a climbing rose to climb a trellis?

Use twine or plant ties to gently secure the canes to the trellis, spreading them out evenly for better air circulation and more blooms.

How fast do climbing roses grow?

Climbing roses typically grow 1 to 2 feet per year, but growth rates can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions.

How often should I water climbing roses?

Water climbing roses deeply once a week, more frequently during dry spells or hot weather.

How do you start climbing roses on a trellis?

Plant your climbing rose close to the trellis, and secure the main stems to it with soft ties as they grow. Gently guide the branches to spread them out.