How To Add Color And Definition To An Outdoor Space With Living Rose 'Doors'

Whether you have a huge, rambling garden or are looking for landscaping ideas to transform your small space, defining distinct areas is a great idea. Visually or physically separating spaces can help create intimacy or the illusion of a larger yard, but it requires creating boundaries and gateways. These don't have to just be functional, as they can also be beautiful. For instance, a living rose "door" can bring beautiful flowers and plenty of color for added charm.

We're using "door" in the loosest of terms. Picture a trellis used to define a gateway or passage from one area of the garden to another that's covered in climbing roses. Whether you use this at your main garden gate or to separate different areas in your garden, a living rose "door" can create a whimsical and charming way to add definition while still allowing for easy flow and inviting people to explore.

Using a rose-covered trellis in this way also provides a beautiful focal point that can be enjoyed from many angles, adding more interest to even the smallest gardens. Climbers are great at saving space, and there are many easy-care varieties of climbing roses that can be low-maintenance additions to any sunny spot in your yard. But when it comes to picking one for a living "door," there are other factors to consider.

There are few things to consider when creating a living rose "door," starting with the location. You will need to find a sunny spot along a path or between two spaces to place a trellis. Most roses prefer similar conditions such as full sun and well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. Once you've located the right spot, you will need to construct a trellis. Whether you want to buy one or explore trellis ideas to maximize outdoor space and DIY your own, this is a critical step.

Picking the right rose is also key. You will want a thornless variety that doesn't catch your clothes or scratch your arm every time you walk through your new living "door." The Lady Banks roses (Rosa banksiae) can be a gorgeous option, as it's thornless and can grow up to 40 feet tall. So if you want lots of lush, white flowers, it's a great option. However, any thornless rose that is also a vigorous climber will work.

When choosing your rose, also consider color and the length of the bloom period. Roses are most stunning when in bloom, and choosing one that flowers from spring through the summer will ensure you maximize its impact. Picking the right color is also important, as this rose will be seen from multiple parts of the garden and inevitably act as a focal point. Choose one that looks great with the rest of your garden from every angle.