Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Climbing Plants: Incorporating Them into Your Garden

There is something beautiful and resourceful about climbing plants. Use them to hide an unattractive fence or shed, add some greenery to a lamp post, the options are vast for these plants.


When it comes to deciding which climbing plants to use, consider these things:
  • Plant climbing plants in the spring to give them time to get established before autumn hits and cover the root balls in 2 inches of dirt to protect them. 

  • Climbing plants, such as ivy, evergreen honeysuckle, and winter jasmine prefer shady or partly shady areas. Whereas deciduous climbers (clematis, Dutchman’s pipe, and trumpet flowers) like sunny areas. 

  • Make sure you give your climbers support by incorporating trellises for them to grab on. When choosing your supports remember the plants will add weight to the structure so make sure you choose something stable that will support the plant as well as handle snow and wind. 

  • If you regularly cut back climbing plants they will come back stronger, sending out new shoots. A good rule of thumb is to let your climbers reach the desired height and then give them a light pruning once a month. 

  • Remember to keep a close eye on the powerful climbers. Cut them back from your bricks and gutters often so they don’t cause serious damage to the exterior of your home. 

What are some of your favorite plants you've incorporated in your garden? What would you add about climbing plants?