Climbing roses bring beauty and elegance to any garden. Unlike shrub roses, these roses grow vertically, making them perfect for trellises, fences, and walls. However, not all climbing roses bloom continuously throughout the summer. If you want a garden filled with vibrant colors from early summer to fall, you need to choose the right varieties.
This article will guide you through the best climbing roses that bloom all summer. You will learn about their characteristics, care requirements, and how to make them thrive in your garden. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting, this guide will help you select the perfect long-blooming climbing roses.
What Are Climbing Roses?
Climbing roses are a type of rose that grows with long, flexible canes. These canes need support to climb structures such as fences, arbors, or trellises. Unlike true vines, climbing roses do not have tendrils or suckers to cling to surfaces. Instead, they rely on their long stems, which need to be tied or woven into supports.
How Climbing Roses Differ from Other Roses
Growth habit – Climbing roses grow tall, often reaching 10-20 feet.
Blooming style – Some varieties bloom once a year, while others flower repeatedly.
Support requirement – They need a trellis, fence, or wall to grow upward.
Pruning method – Different from bush roses, climbers need careful pruning to encourage flowering.
For a garden that stays colorful all summer, it is important to choose repeat-blooming climbing roses rather than those that only bloom once.
Best Climbing Roses That Bloom All Summer
Some climbing roses bloom repeatedly from early summer to fall. These varieties will keep your garden bright with colors for months.
Eden Rose (Pierre de Ronsard)
Color: Creamy pink with hints of blush
Fragrance: Light, fruity scent
Height: 10-12 feet
Blooming habit: Repeat bloomer
Eden Rose is a classic beauty with large, romantic flowers. It is disease-resistant and thrives in many climates. This rose looks stunning on arches and pergolas.
Zephirine Drouhin
Color: Deep pink
Fragrance: Strong, sweet scent
Height: 12-15 feet
Blooming habit: Continuous bloomer
Zephirine Drouhin is one of the best thornless climbing roses. It blooms profusely all summer and does well in partial shade. This makes it perfect for walkways and entryways where people might brush against it.
New Dawn
Color: Soft pink
Fragrance: Mild, fresh scent
Height: 12-18 feet
Blooming habit: Repeat bloomer
New Dawn is a reliable climber known for its hardiness and disease resistance. It produces clusters of beautiful flowers from early summer until frost.
Golden Showers
Color: Bright yellow
Fragrance: Light, fruity scent
Height: 8-12 feet
Blooming habit: Continuous bloomer
Golden Showers is one of the best yellow climbing roses. It blooms repeatedly and adds a cheerful touch to garden spaces. It also tolerates a variety of soil conditions.
Iceberg Climbing Rose
Color: Pure white
Fragrance: Light, delicate scent
Height: 10-12 feet
Blooming habit: Repeat bloomer
Iceberg is a classic white climbing rose. It produces clusters of blooms all summer and is highly resistant to disease. Its bright white flowers stand out beautifully against green foliage.
Lady Banks Rose
Color: Pale yellow or white
Fragrance: Light, sweet scent
Height: 15-20 feet
Blooming habit: Repeat bloomer
Lady Banks Rose is a vigorous grower. It produces small but abundant flowers and requires little maintenance. It is a great choice for covering walls and fences.
How to Care for Climbing Roses
To enjoy continuous blooms, proper care is essential. Follow these tips to keep your climbing roses healthy and full of flowers.
Choose the Right Location
Sunlight – At least 6-8 hours of direct sun per day.
Soil – Well-drained, rich in organic matter.
Air circulation – Avoid planting in crowded spaces to prevent diseases.
Watering and Feeding
Watering – Deep watering once or twice a week.
Fertilizing – Use a balanced rose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Pruning for More Blooms
Remove dead or weak stems in early spring.
Train new canes horizontally to encourage more flowers.
Deadhead spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.
Supporting Climbing Roses
- Use a strong trellis, fence, or pergola.
- Gently tie stems with soft garden ties.
- Space canes evenly to allow light and air circulation.
Common Problems and Solutions
Pests and Diseases
- Aphids – Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Black spot – Use fungicides and remove infected leaves.
- Powdery mildew – Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Weak Blooms
Too much shade – Move to a sunnier spot.
Poor soil – Enrich with compost and organic matter.
Incorrect pruning – Prune lightly to encourage growth.
Conclusion
Choosing the right climbing roses can keep your garden in bloom all summer. Repeat-blooming varieties like Eden Rose, Zephirine Drouhin, and New Dawn provide long-lasting beauty. With proper care, these roses will brighten your garden year after year.
If you want a garden filled with climbing roses that bloom all summer, start by selecting the best varieties and providing them with the right conditions. With patience and care, you will enjoy a stunning, flower-filled landscape season after season.
