When to plant Climbing Rose?

Plant 'New Dawn' climbing rose between October and November or in March, when the soil is workable and not frozen or waterlogged. Bare-root roses planted in autumn establish better, but container-grown plants can go in during spring. Choose a position in full sun or partial shade—this variety tolerates some shade better than most climbers, though flowering will be heaviest in good light. The site must have support: a wall, fence, trellis, pergola, or sturdy arch capable of carrying a plant that will reach 3 to 5 metres in height and spread 2 to 3 metres. Prepare the soil thoroughly. 'New Dawn' thrives in loam or clay soil with good structure. Dig a hole at least 45 cm wide and deep, and work in plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost. If planting against a wall or fence, position the hole at least 45 cm away from the base to avoid the dry rain shadow and allow roots to spread. The graft union (the knobbly swelling at the base of the stems) should sit just below soil level—about 2 to 3 cm down. Space plants 200 cm apart if planting more than one. After planting, firm the soil gently with your heel, water thoroughly, and apply a 5 cm layer of mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the stems. If planting bare-root roses, prune the stems back to about 15 cm to encourage strong new growth. Tie in the main stems loosely to your support using soft twine or rose ties, fanning them out horizontally to encourage flowering shoots along their length.