DIY Network

Training From "DIY Growing Roses" episode DDGR-102

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Figure A A simple plastic sleeve, like the blue one shown here, will ensure that eye screws fit snugly into any wall material. Tying your rose to a wire support is the first step toward training it to climb a wall.

This trellis will go with any type of architecture: it's made of wire to blend in with any background! The project requires only minimal materials and effort. It consists of two lengths of stainless-steel baling wire, placed horizontally along a bare wall (figure A). (Note: For a taller plant or wall, you may want to consider adding a third wire.) The wire will recede into the background while still providing an effective foundation for training roses to climb.

Materials:
Tape measure
Pencil
Drill and drill bit
Plastic screw sleeves
Hammer
Eye screws
Stainless-steel wire

Steps:

1. Measure and mark where the eyes crews will go (one at each end of the wall). Drill a hole at each point.

2. Insert a plastic sleeve in each drilled hole. Hammer each sleeve flush with the wall. (Note: For a wet climate, add a little silicone to form a watertight seal.)

3. Insert an eye screw in each sleeve and tighten, making sure that each eye ends up in a vertical position (this will help ensure that the wire stays adequately tightened).

4. Insert one end of a length of wire through one eye and secure by wrapping the end tightly several times.

5. Stretch the wire tightly and secure at the other end in the same manner.

6. Once all of the wires are secured, it's time to plant your rose. In the demonstration, Gilmer uses a 15-gallon rose, which she places so that the side with the greatest amount of growth is closest to the wall. (Note: Be careful when moving a rootball. Damaging it can shock the plant.)

7. Once the rose is planted, untangle the canes. (Note: Don't be in a hurry! If you rush, you might break brittle canes.) Don't force them -- work with the natural habit and shape of the plant. Cut off any that don't go in the direction that you want the plant to grow.

8. Secure one end of a tie tightly on the wire, using a double knot to ensure a solid hold. There are a variety of types of tying material available; some are rigid, while others are flexible and provide a degree of stretch.

9. Tie the other end to the plant more loosely; a certain degree of "give" is important to allow the plant to move with the wind and thus avoid breakage. (Note: A good rule of thumb when tying: leave enough space to insert a finger between the tie and the plant.)