gatt writes:

That's how I viewed the question. The airspace/limits don't specifically
refer to VFR cruise, although cruising under VFR would still make you
subject to broader airspace and operating limits.

So are there general limits for climb and descent rates that apply to VFR?

I know there are constraints for climbs and descents directed by ATC, but for
climbs and descents initiated by the pilot on his own (which would usually
apply only to VFR, although there are some IFR examples, too), I can't find a
specific maximum or (especially) minimum.