Can you recommend climbing rose varieties that perform well in Iowa?

Question:

Can you recommend climbing rose varieties that perform well in Iowa?

Answer:

Generally, climbing roses don’t perform well in Iowa.  Many bloom on the previous year’s growth, but suffer extensive winter dieback.  As a result, many climbing roses bloom little or not at all.

The following roses are noted for their hardiness, vigor, and disease resistance.

  • ‘William Baffin’ produces semi-double, deep pink, 3-inch flowers.  The center of each blossom contains bright gold stamens.  Plants bloom heavily in June with light bloom through summer.  ‘William Baffin’ can attain a height of 8 to 10 feet.  It can be grown as a large shrub or climber.
  • The long, arching canes of ‘Henry Kelsey’ may grow 7 to 9 feet long.  It can be grown as a climber or arching shrub.  ‘Henry Kelsey’ produces semi-double, medium red, 3-inch flowers.  Golden stamens highlight the center of each blossom.  ‘Henry Kelsey’ blooms heavily in June with light repeat bloom. 
  • ‘John Cabot’ bears deep rose-pink, semi-double, 3-inch flowers on 6- to 8-foot-long canes.  The blossoms are moderately fragrant.  Plants bloom heavily in June with light to moderate bloom through summer.  ‘John Cabot’ can be grown as a spreading shrub or as a climber. 

Learn more about growing roses in this article: Growing Roses in Iowa.

Last updated on
June 30, 2023