The climbing beauties rose and clematis form a partnership in the garden with playful ease. Proper planting contributes significantly to perfect harmony. The following tips show what is important for this dream couple.
How to combine roses and clematis in the garden?
Roses and clematis can be successfully combined in the garden by planting them in a location with a southwest or southeast orientation, well-drained and nutrient-rich soil and a climbing aid. Give roses a growth head start of 1-2 years and ensure sufficient planting distance for harmonious growth.
The right location for two graces
While the demanding rose prefers sunny lighting conditions, the clematis prefers partially shaded conditions. The two flower beauties agree on the temperature conditions, because they don't want to be confronted with the stagnant summer heat. This is the ideal location for roses and clematis:
- An orientation to the southwest or southeast
- Like to be protected from rain and surrounded by air
- A trellis, rose arch or fence as a climbing aid
A nutrient-rich, humus-rich soil offers perfect conditions if the soil is also well-drained. Light exposure to wind contributes to the long-term prevention of fungal infections.
Planting at a time apart - this is how it works
A day during the months of August to October has proven to be the optimal planting date. Soak rose and clematis root balls in water during prep work. Follow these steps:
- Clean the soil thoroughly of weeds, roots and stones and rake vigorously
- Dig two planting holes 80-100 centimeters apart at a distance of 20-30 centimeters from the climbing aid
- Enrich the excavation with compost and horn shavings (€12.00 on Amazon)
- Create a drainage system at the bottom of the pit with gravel or pottery shards
Insert the rose so deeply that the grafting area is covered by 5 centimeters of soil. Plant the clematis 7-10 centimeters deeper. Both root balls have a slight slant towards the climbing aid. Finally, water well.
If you give roses a growth lead of 1 to 2 years, this prudence will greatly benefit the harmonious coexistence. If the clematis is paired with an older climbing rose, we recommend a planting distance of 100 centimeters. In addition, a separating layer made of wood or foil between the two root balls ensures unhindered development of the clematis in the first two years.
Tips & Tricks
Experienced amateur gardeners give preference to climber roses over rambler roses when combined with clematis. Climbers develop stronger shoots and flower more often, while ramblers, once flowering, develop soft tendrils up to 10 meters long that vehemently suppress clematis.
