I have New Dawn which survives in my very cold Zone 4, although it never gets very large. However, I saw one last week at the Coastal Maine Botanic Gardens that was 10-12 feet tall. Look for some of the older climbers---they seem to stand up to Maine winters fairly well. Dorothy Perkins is another popular one, although she is more a rambler than a climber.

You should visit the rose lady at the Portland farmer market. She knows everything about roses. I have had success with William Baffin here and in Zone 4, so you should be all set in 5a.

If you are anywhere near Phippsburg (south of Bath)check out North Creek. There is a website.

I have to go out & do some watering before dark but will be back later.

Sorry, I had written to you on the roses forum. Don't read the Maine forum very often as not much is written here, but it was too hot to go out & I had already checked my favorite forums.

William Baffin is about the only climber that comes back every year for me.I have tried many and this has been the best cold hardy one I have found.Any other has died after a cold winter. John cabot does also come back. But does not get as big as William baffin

Gardencats,

William Baffin sounds perfect for my arbor! Thank you for suggesting it.

Lisa Bourret
West Newfield, Maine
Zone 5a

Here's the website for North Creek Farm. Suzy Verrier is an expert on old roses that will grow in Maine, but as I recall also has some of the newer roses as well. I know that North Creek isn't close to you, but she does mail order. If you visit the website, the plants are listed under "Gardening Shed" which seemed an odd place to put them. Her roses are all unfussy types.

Here is a link that might be useful: North Creek Farm