| I wish to plant climbing roses on (against) a south facing stucco wall. is partially protected from AM sun, but receives the afternoon sun. Question. The surface area is a concrete and brick paver area. I have left several cutouts in the concrete and brick areas, up against the wall, about 5 feet apart. The roots will have to grow and thrive under the concrete. Should stay cool and moist. We really want roses here, (preferably, salmon, red or yellow/orange). Will this work and what varieties would you suggest? |
| A sunny site for climbers is a must, but I'm concerned about the reflected heat that the wall and the concrete floor will produce. While you can probably provide adequate food and water for the roots of the plants, the lower stems may be cooked by the heat generated and reflected by the concrete in mid-summer. If you can change this, perhaps by spreading a thick layer of bark over the concrete, the roses might be happier. You'll also want to provide some support for the vines rather than attaching them directly to the face of the stucco wall. The canes will need good air circulation, and a few inches away from the wall will also keep the leaves from burning as they would if placed in direct contact with the wall. So, plan to construct or install some kind of trellis a few inches from the wall for the plants. Some vigorous climbing roses in the colors you like include Lady Banks' 'Lutea', Rosa foetida 'Bicolor', Rosa wichuraiana 'Paul Transon' (also known as Memorial Rose). |
