Attaching roses to structures and supports is an ancient custom. Today, we attach roses to trellises, pillars, arbors, tripods, pergolas, and parasols. Sometimes we support a central cane as a rose "standard" (or "tree rose"). Although several gadgets are available to assist the modern rosarian in this attaching procedure, some of us still like to use old fashioned ties.
When tying the rose to the support, use the proper knot and procedure to ensure the rose cane is not too constricted and to help protect the cane from chafing against its support.
I prefer to use that green plastic landscaping tape -- 1 in. wide and folded in half lengthwise.
First wrap the tape loosely around the cane to be supported. Wrap the cane only once or twice. The tape should be a little loose so as not to constrict the cane as the plastic shrinks and the cane swells.
Then tie a square knot on the side of the rose cane nearest to the support. [Remember square knots from Scouts? Left over right; right over left. :-) ]
Next, pull the cane to the support such that the knot is now between the cane and the supporting structure. The knot will act as a spacer between the two.
Then tie another square knot to attach the cane to the support.
This knot spacer between the cane and the support will help prevent the rose from chafing against the structure. By reducing the chafed areas on your canes, you reduce the cracks and crevices susceptible to pests and disease spores. And by using the proper knot, you're assured the tie and spacer will remain in place until next year.
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