Rosemary, I, too, would like to discuss this matter; thank you for posting the question. It seems like whenever the subject of spacing between roses comes up, people tend to respond with the formula "estimate the mature width of the roses in question", and space according to that. Or else "space climbers 1-2 meters apart",but it's hard to get a straight answer when you ask how much space a bush or shrub rose needs from a climber ! Now, I think Seil brings up some vital points: one needs to consider the garden conditions that result from the presence of a climber, and also just what sort of climber is in question. I myself am still experimenting around with this. My own garden conditions are so peculiar: my land had never been cultivated before I started my garden, so the soil is by no means "good garden soil" and , 20 years later, I am stil working hard on it, since it's very different in different areas, etc.Also, I have no running water out there (my garden is a 20 minute drive from my house) so plants basically have to rely on rainfall after the first year or so.Up until now, with these very tough conditions, I've really only had success with climbers, ramblers and (some) OGRs and hybrid musks,and a couple of landscape-type roses and Austins. Now I am trying to attempt some floribundas,but I think they will need more coddling than the others. My point re your question here, and building on Seil's remarks, is that I think when considering spacing it's important to consider the natural vigour of the plants involved.Perhaps one could get away with planting a vigorous, robust landscape-type bush rose near a climber, whereas a floribunda- type bush would fail? Hopefully, more people will weigh in...
