Climbing PlantsClimbing plants can add an extra dimension to your yard or garden by providing a contrast to the horizontal layout of your flowerbeds and borders. Climbers can be used to cover an arbor or trellises on a wall or fence. Although most prefer a position in full sun, it is possible to grow many climbing plants in shade. When buying a climber you need to check how high it will grow since the height varies widely between varieties. Here is a list of some common climbing plants: Clematis. Although some varieties grow to a height of just six feet, most range from ten up to thirty feet. C. montana, a popular variety, can reach 40 feet depending on its position.
Hedera (ivy). H. helix or common ivy can grow between 50-100 feet high, and although it can be useful for ground cover or to hide an unsightly wall or shed, this variety tends to be more trouble than it is worth. There are other varieties which are not so vigorous which reach a maximum height of 20-30 feet. Ipomea (morning glory). The plants range from 6-10 feet tall. They are mostly grown as half-hardy annuals either in the greenhouse or outside in the perenniel border. Jasminum. J. nudiflorum or winter-flowering jasmine grows to a height of 10 feet whereas J. officinale, the common white jasmine, can grow up to 30 feet high. Lonicera (honeysuckle). L. hildebrandiana, a greenhouse variety, grows up to 60 feet or more but the other varieties range from 8-30 feet high. Passiflora (passion flower). Different varieties range from 15-30 feet in height. Only two, P. caerulea and P. umbellicata, can be grown outdoors where they need a sheltered position that does not suffer from severe winter frosts. Rosa. The rose is an example of a species that includes many forms of which the climber is only one. Many varieties grow between 10-12 feet high but some vigorous types can reach 60 feet. Wisteria. These shrubs are vigorous climbers, most growing up to 30 feet high, but W. sinesis (Chinese wisteria) can reach a height of 100 feet. If you are tempted to plant one of these magnificent shrubs, you will need to prune it on a regular basis to keep it under control. Although you need to be aware of the height that each plant is likely to reach, this does not mean
that it will do so in every case. For instance the clematis C.montana, which can grow to 40 feet, will live quite
happily on a trellis attached to a six foot high fence. As with all plants, the secret is to consult a local expert
at your garden center or nursery before making your purchase.
Plants, flowers and gardening is easy and
satisfying!
|
Garden Supplies Home > Articles & Tips > Climbing Plants Copyright © 2004 - 2011 All rights reserved.
|