What are some suggestions for companion plants for roses that do well in a northern climate?
We have our favorites, of course, which biases this answer, but here’s our suggested list for Zone 4: • Lilies of all kinds: particularly orientals. Pastel colors work very well. • Delphiniums • Perovskia • Cimicifuga • Liatris • Phlox (get ones that are resistant to powdery mildew) • Echinacea — purple and white • Veronica — blues and whites • Achillea (they spread quickly) • Campanula (short ones, like blue or white clips are great for edging also) • Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’ • Scabiosa • Dianthus — especially useful at the base of “leggy” roses • Clematis — they work very well intertwined with climbing/pillar roses • Pansies • Garlic (theoretically, the sulphur in garlic helps prevent leaf spots) • Penstemmons • Digitalis (foxglove) • Peonies This list can be expanded, depending on your preference and favorites. You’re always safe with pastel, white and blue colors with roses, since most roses are pink. There are lots of books with good suggestions for landscaping with roses. Ask you
