Caring for Climbing Rose

Water 'New Dawn' regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, it has moderate water needs but benefits from deep watering during prolonged dry spells in spring and summer—give it a thorough soak every seven to ten days rather than frequent shallow watering. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. Mulch annually in early spring with well-rotted manure, garden compost, or bark chips to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and feed the soil. Feed in March or early April with a balanced rose fertiliser or general-purpose granular feed, scattering it around the base and watering in. Apply a second feed in June, after the first flush of flowers, using a high-potash fertiliser (such as tomato feed) to encourage repeat flowering through summer and autumn. Avoid feeding after late July, as soft new growth is vulnerable to frost. 'New Dawn' is hardy in zones 5a to 9b and needs no special winter protection in temperate Europe. Check ties and supports in autumn and after gales to prevent wind damage. This rose is generally healthy but watch for blackspot, particularly in humid summers—remove and bin affected leaves promptly and avoid overhead watering. Aphids often cluster on soft new growth in late spring; squash by hand or spray with water. Powdery mildew can appear in dry conditions; improve air circulation by thinning congested growth. Deadhead spent blooms regularly through summer to encourage further flowering, snipping back to the first strong leaf. In autumn, leave hips on if you wish—they provide winter interest and food for birds.