WHAT TO GROW WITH ROSES

 MODERN ROSES FLOWER over long periods of time, but a mix of herbaceous perennials will plug gaps when they’re not in full swing. Perennials will also invite all-important beneficial insects (many of which are pollinators) into your garden to help with pest management.

 LADYBIRDS AND LACEWINGS will devour rose aphids, and those they miss can be sprayed off with a strong jet of water from your garden hose.

 AVOID ANYTHING TOO TALL that might cast shadows over your sun-loving roses. As they tend to be sparser near the bottom, low-growing catmint (Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low’), lady’s mantle (Alchemilla mollis) or lavender (Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ is compact) are all ideal.

 GERANIUMS ARE GREAT WITH ROSES Complement or contrast Geranium x oxonianum ‘Wargrave Pink’ or G ‘Rozanne’ with your rose’s colour.