Can you recommend climbing rose varieties that perform well in Iowa?

Generally, climbing roses don’t perform well in Iowa.  Many bloom on the previous year’s growth, but suffer extensive winter dieback.  As a result, many climbing roses bloom little or not at all.

The following roses are noted for their hardiness, vigor, and disease resistance.

• ‘William Baffin’ produces semi-double, deep pink, 3-inch flowers.  The center of each blossom contains bright gold stamens.  Plants bloom heavily in June with light bloom through summer.  ‘William Baffin’ can attain a height of 8 to 10 feet.  It can be grown as a large shrub or climber.
• The long, arching canes of ‘Henry Kelsey’ may grow 7 to 9 feet long.  It can be grown as a climber or arching shrub.  ‘Henry Kelsey’ produces semi-double, medium red, 3-inch flowers.  Golden stamens highlight the center of each blossom.  ‘Henry Kelsey’ blooms heavily in June with light repeat bloom. 
• ‘John Cabot’ bears deep rose-pink, semi-double, 3-inch flowers on 6- to 8-foot-long canes.  The blossoms are moderately fragrant.  Plants bloom heavily in June with light to moderate bloom through summer.  ‘John Cabot’ can be grown as a spreading shrub or as a climber. 

Learn more about growing roses in this article: Growing Roses in Iowa.