Caring for the climbers

Pruning is normally done in early spring or late winter, when old canes can be removed along with any dead or diseased ones. New canes, the ones that are flexible and green, should be allowed to grow upward, but last year’s canes should be bent horizontally and tied in place. You can crisscross the canes if you are training them up an arbour, trellis or gazebo. Actually, some rose growers say the more you twist and wrap the canes of a climbing rosebush, the more blooms they will produce. The canes should be tied in place with plastic tape or twine. Point the tips of the canes downwards.

Climbing roses can be trained to climb along or over nearly any surface, but it’s important to choose a climber that won’t overwhelm and destroy its climbing frame. They may look delicate and airy but these bushes can grow to weight several hundred pounds. Choose a support that is strong and well-anchored.

Some of the problems you can experience with climbers include thrips - small, winged insects that thrive in hot, dry conditions. Most of the damage is caused by the young larvae, which feed on tender leaf and flower tissue. Their activity leads to distorted growth, injured flower petals and premature flower drop. Thrips also can transmit many harmful plant viruses.

To control thrips, keep weeds down and remove or discard infested plants. Trap insects with yellow sticky cards or take advantage of natural enemies such as predatory mites. Sometimes a good steady shower of water will wash them off the plant.

Other insect problems include spider mites - small, eight-legged, spider-like creatures that also thrive in hot, dry conditions. Spider mites feed with piercing mouthparts, which cause plants to appear yellow and stippled. To control these, keep weeds down, remove infested plants and water regularly.

Powdery mildew is often a problem in the Maritime climate because of the cool nights and warm humid days. You’ll notice leaves turning yellow or brown, curling up and dropping off. New foliage emerges crinkled and distorted. It’s best to plant resistant varieties and space plants properly so they receive adequate light and air circulation. Always water from below, keeping water off the foliage, especially roses.