| Is there any variety of climbing rose that is hardy enough to thrive in this part of Vermont? |
| Here are some that have appeared on two or more "hardy roses" lists from various cold regions of North America: Reds - 'Altissimo' (extremely hardy), 'Don Juan', 'Improved Blaze'; Pinks - 'America' and 'New Dawn'; Yellow - 'Golden Showers'. It's important to wrap the canes with burlap or other insulating material for the winter, and in general, just keep them as healthy as possible. Some gardeners go as far as to loosen half the root ball from the soil so they can tip the canes over and cover them on the ground for added winter protection. A great source of northern-grown, hardy roses is Royall River Roses, 70 New Gloucester Rd., North Yarmouth, ME 04097; ph# 207/829-8530; catalog $3. I found most of this information in the new book "Roses for Dummies", written by Lance Walheim and the Editors of National Gardening Magazine. Check out the website at www.dummies.com for more info on the book. Good luck with your roses! |
