[Hey Jude]

Have got a new pergola and have planted roses against each post (6 in total), I'd love clematis as well but a) would 6 clematis planted at the other side of the posts look OTT and b) would they smother the roses - I'd really appreciate your thoughts! Thank you, Hey Jude.

[mumofstig]

Have you planted climbing or rambling roses Jude?

[Hey Jude]

Hi Mum, they're climbers and should grow to 6 - 8 ft - I thought the ramblers would overwhelm them.

[mumofstig]

I thought the ramblers would overwhelm

That's why I asked Jude ....You need to grow the viticella type clematis that you cut down to ground (ish) level every year, that way they will never get out of hand, and you can prune the roses then if you want to

Sounds lovely ........I think we need pics though 

[Hey Jude]

Mum thanks for the advice which I will follow - I'll attempt some pictures (though there's not a lot to see at the moment) and hopefully I'll have a pergola to be proud of in the months to come - I know exactly how I want it to look in my minds eye, lets hope the reality isn't too tricky!