Question
I have a white rambling rose that I leave the rose hips on for the birds and for something to view in the winter. I don't do anything to protect the climber over the winter (and usually that's fine, but this past winter 2009 was so bad, that I lost all of my canes, but the rose has produced new canes and even has lots of flower buds). What is strange, is that another rose plant has started growing about 3 feet from the original white climbing rose (which is grafted onto some unknown root stock - the original plant is over 10 years old) - I noticed it last year and it was very small and I did nothing to protect it this winter (these plants grow along my garage). This year it grew very long healthy canes and I have tied them horizontally to the side of the garage, but so far no flower buds. I did give it my normal systemic Bayer rose fertilizer along with my other roses. I read that it takes a full year of growth before the plant works on flowers - but I have had rose plants grow around that area that produced no roses for many years and for which I removed (the ones that produced no roses, were not ones I planted). I am located in Chicago, IL and my small city yard is well protected by two large buildings on either side. I also get partial sun, but my few roses seem to do fine.

So my questions are: 1) Where did this rose come from? Did it come from the original white climber? and 2) Will it ever bloom? and 3) What should I do to encourage bloom?

I know its a rose plant by the leaves, canes and the thorns. The plant itself is quite healthy and this is the first year it has produced such long canes. I think the leaves are slightly different from the original white plant, which is why I am puzzled by where this rose plant came from.

Thanks for any help, Anne

Answer
One is never along when it comes to landscaping a garden. There are always birds to help you. I have a few species in my garden that I did not plant or even want. Your mystery rose  is the work of a landscaping bird. Many roses bloom on last years wood so you have to wait until the next year to see any blooms. I would give it one more year and then you will see the flowers.